Mental Health Awareness Week 2020 – Kindness is Key

This Week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats are highlighting the many resources available to help people look after their own mental health and to support others.

This theme of the week is kindness, which has been chosen because of the close link between kindness and mental health and its importance for good mental health and wellbeing.

Research has shown that many people have experienced heightened levels of fear, anxiety and stress during the difficult current circumstances under the coronavirus pandemic. With psychological and social impacts likely to outlast the physical symptoms of the virus, looking after our mental health is going to be central to people coping with and recovering from the coronavirus pandemic.

Commenting, Bedford Borough Liberal Democrat Group Spokesperson Cllr Dean Crofts said: "These are extremely difficult times which are presenting new challenges for people, and it is vital that we look after each other and look after our own mental health.'

"Kindness is a very appropriate theme for the week, because we have seen it in abundance locally in recent weeks. People have rallied to support the vulnerable in their communities, and are pulling together to help tackle isolation and stress and other factors which can have a major impact on mental health. Kindness can boost others and of course yourself, while strengthening relationships and creating a sense of belonging and community.'

"If you are struggling it is important to remember that it is ok not to be ok, and that help is available locally."

For tips on how to take care of your mental health and wellbeing during times of uncertainty visit www.bedford.gov.uk/wellbeing.

The NHS Every Mind Matters initiative offers expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing. You can find out more at https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/

Bedford Borough Council is running an Active Minds scheme help people stay busy and keep their minds active as lockdown continues. You can find out how to donate items such as jigsaws, board games or craft items to the scheme at https://www.bedford.gov.uk/social-care-health-and-community/public-health/coronavirus/active-minds-scheme/, where you can also find out how to receive a donation.