It’s Mental Health Awareness Week

As we continue with Mindful May, today also marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19 May). This year’s theme is body image, exploring how we think and feel about our bodies and how we believe others see us.

Body image issues can affect all of us at any age and directly impact our mental health. During the week, the Mental Health Foundation is publishing new research and practical tools to help improve the nation’s relationship with their bodies.

Mental health problems can affect anyone, at any time. This week is about getting people talking about body image and other mental health issues.

Mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2019 with the #EmpowerHalfHour. By taking just half an hour to break for a change of scenery or activity can boost energy levels and focus the mind.

What is #EmpowerHalfHour?

Mental Health First Aid England has put together a range of simple, themed activities below to help you get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week.

The #EmpowerHalfHour activities will help you explore the link between mental and physical wellbeing.

How you can get involved

Show your support for Mental Health Awareness Week. Take 30 minutes to try the activities that follow to boost your wellbeing at work.

Each activity is something you can do together as a team, so why not give one or two of them a try!

Motivate
Group games and goals can bring people together:

• Team quiz
• Goal setting: what will bring you closer together as a team?

Share
Connect with colleagues by discussing your life outside of work. What are your:

• Secret skills or hidden talents
• Much-loved hobbies
• Weekend plans

Move
Get active, a healthy body helps a healthy mind so why not:

• Set up a walking meeting
• Try chair yoga
• Go and speak to a colleague rather than phoning or emailing them

Discover
Open your mind and calm your thoughts:

• Try mindfulness as a team
• Explore meditation
• Turn off your tech! No apps and no emails

Bond
Show your support for your teammates:

• Take turns to discuss each person’s best qualities
• Invite someone new for coffee or lunch
• Share lunch with colleagues – each bring a different dish

For more information about Mental Health Awareness Week 2019, visit the Mental Health Foundation website.