THIRD column by GL11 Community Hub in Cam - written by Lisa Wilson
Lisa Wilson is a community wellbeing director at the charity and speaks about their mental health services.
When did you last MOT your mental health?
Do you ever feel like you get no time for yourself? You service your car right, and your boiler, but when was the last time you MOTed your mental health?
I know I find it hard to make time for myself. Sometimes we can even feel guilty for taking that time, but self-care is not selfish, in fact, it is essential for our wellbeing.
One in four of us will suffer mental ill health at some point in our lives, and it’s Mental Health Awareness Week from 13th to 19th May. The focus this year is on movement for health.
We’ve all heard going to the gym, or doing a bit of yoga is good for us, but who has the energy to do that after a full day in the office?
The good news is movement can be a few stretches in the morning, walking the dog, dancing with the children, or taking a walk round the garden at lunchtime. It all benefits our mental health.
We don’t need to wait until we feel unwell, more tired, sad or worried before we take action to MOT our mental health.
At GL11 we run a professional counselling service, which supports around 1,000 local people every year.
A time and space to talk about your experience is a basic human need and doesn’t need to be for when you are really struggling with life.
Our qualified counsellors also run workshops and peer support groups.
If you don’t fancy working with a counsellor, why not just pop down for a cup of tea and a chat or join one of our groups?
Did you know learning a new skill, or connecting with others, is also a sure way to keep us well.
It’s part of the NHS ‘5 Ways to Wellness’. To mark Mental Health Awareness Week this year, GL11 are having our own Silent Disco, a chance to get moving together.
Come on down for a dance, or to get more information, and see what it is all about!
More information about GL11’s wellbeing services can be found on our website, and additional information about mental health awareness can be found at www.mentalhealth.org.uk
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