Bedford Borough Council is highlighting how ‘Every Mind Matters’ this Mental Health Awareness Day.
The coronavirus pandemic, months of lockdown and the continued uncertainty has been tough for everyone, and people’s mental health may have been affected in various ways.
According to recent research conducted by MIND, more than half of adults (60%) and over two thirds of young people (68%) said their mental health got worse during lockdown1.
Many people will be feeling lonely, isolated, stressed and anxious during this difficult period, so it’s important we do all we can to look after each other and support one another’s mental wellbeing.
Cllr Louise Jackson Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Wellbeing said: “As we all feel the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic and lockdown, it has never been more important to continue to raise awareness and encourage conversations around mental health.
“Looking out for each other can help during these difficult times by reducing isolation and stress, strengthening relationships, developing community and deepening solidarity.
“It’s important to remember it is OK to feel stressed or anxious and that everyone reacts differently. Remember, this situation is temporary and, for most people, these difficult feelings will pass.”
There are many local resources available if you or someone you know needs support.
World Mental Health Virtual Coffee Morning
10am–12pm, Thursday 8 October
Bedfordshire and Luton Recovery College host a chat and activities around world mental health day
Email elft.recoverycollege@nhs.net
Mindful Yoga + Wellbeing Q+A with Ben Salmons and Robert Lindsay
3pm–4.30pm, Friday 9 October
Please visit www.bedfordsportlive.crd.co and scroll down to the WMHD link on Friday to join the FREE session
Every Mind Matters Webinar
11.30am–12.30pm, Saturday 10 October
Mind BLMK (Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes) are holding a free Every Mind Matters webinar on Mental Health Day to discuss how to look after and support mental wellbeing.
Every Mind Matters is a NHS approved campaign that aims to help people take simple steps to look after their mental health, improve their mental wellbeing and support others. To book a place on the webinar email training@mind-blmk.org.uk.
Kooth
Free safe online counselling for children and young people (for age 11 until their 26th birthday) across Bedfordshire. Kooth gives young people access to professional help and support from qualified counsellors sevev days per week. It can also support adults struggling due the mental health of their child can get access. It is accessible from any device just visit www.kooth.com/.
For tips on how to take care of your mental health and wellbeing visit www.bedford.gov.uk/wellbeing
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