Introduction

Mental health is about how we think, feel and behave. Everyone has mental health and it’s important that people know how to look after their mental health and prevent mental ill health from developing.

Our mental health may change because of situations we are in, thing’s we’re doing and thing’s beyond our control such as our physical health, finances, world events such as the pandemic and even the weather.

Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enable people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well, work well and contribute to their community.

We can all do things that help to support our mental health and prevent problems. The Mental Health Foundation have produced a series of guides to help share this advice.

Ideas for you

The Mental Health Foundation recommend 11 tips that can help to support your mental health. Evidence shows that these things are most effective at improving mental health:

• Get closer to nature – spend time outside and notice your natural surroundings.
• Get more from your sleep – adults need between 7 and 9 hours per night
• Keep moving – move your body by cycling, dancing, gardening, going for a walk or doing an exercise class.
• Eat healthy food – a balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables is good for your mental and physical health
• Be kind and help create a better world – volunteering or doing small acts to help others can improve mental health
• Be curious and open minded about new experiences
• Plan things to look forward to
• Learn to understand and manage your feelings
• Talk to someone you trust for support
• Be aware of using drugs or alcohol to cope with difficult feelings
• Try to make the most of your money and get help with debt problems

More information can be found on the Mental Health Foundation website under Best Mental Health Tips.

Things that might help

Creating a mental health safety plan can help you identify the things that keep you well and the places and people who can support you when things don’t go to plan.

The Orange Button Community Scheme gives the details of people who have undergone mental health/suicide prevention training and who can listen and provide details of further support.

The Mental Health Foundation provide a wealth of resources resources for parents and carers as well as professionals working in mental health.

Other services and support

Every Mind Matters is run by the NHS and provides tips and advice on improving mental health and reducing anxiety. It is available here.

Cornwall Council provides information on support for mental heath ranging from developing a safety plan to training and support for parents and young people. You can access the information here.

The Samaritans provide confidential support and someone to listen to you. You can call, email, chat face-to-face or online see their website.

Healthy Cornwall can provide specific training for Mental Health Frist Aid and Suicide First Aid. You can find out more here.

Cornwall Council can arrange free mental health training for working people in Cornwall through the Sound Doctor website. Click here.