Hello PPMA members and friends

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and to recognise this, our Best Health & Wellbeing Initiative Award Winners, Lincolnshire County Council have written a blog post for us. Gail Hewitt is Lincolnshire’s Senior Employee Counsellor and she led on the remodelling of their Employee Support and Counselling Service and this work won them the award. In this post Gail outlines what we can do to help improve and maintain our own mental health.

We live a in a world that often focuses on physical health, yet mental health is just as crucial. Discussions around the subject of mental health have historically had stigma and misunderstanding.

Today, however, thanks to such things as mental health awareness week, there is a growing recognition of the importance of mental health. This supports and encourages individuals and communities to take positive steps towards fostering a healthier mind.

Mental health affects our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It influences how we think, feel, and act, shaping every aspect of our lives. Just as we prioritise exercise and nutritious diets for our physical health, we must also prioritise strategies that nurture our mental wellbeing.

One of the most effective ways to nurture your mental health is having self-awareness. Taking the time to understand our emotions, thoughts, and behaviours allows us to identify areas of strength and areas that may require attention. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help develop this self-awareness, keeping us in the here and now and reducing the symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Having a good support network around us is an essential aspect of mental health. Surrounding ourselves with family, friends or mental health professionals who we trust, will validate our experiences and offer encouragement, can provide a sense of belonging, security and safety.

Additionally, selfcare is so important in maintaining optimal mental health. This can include such things as engaging in activities that we enjoy, setting boundaries to protect our time and energy, also prioritising rest. Regular exercise, good sleep habits, and eating healthy meals also play a vital role in supporting our mental health.

However, it is not a weakness if we struggle with our mental health. Just as we would visit a medical professional for physical ailments, asking for help for mental health concerns take courage and is a sign of strength, self-awareness, and resilience. Therapy, counselling, and support groups offer valuable resources for individuals navigating mental health challenges, providing tools and strategies to cope effectively.

Furthermore, destigmatising conversations around mental health is crucial for creating a culture of acceptance and support. By sharing our experiences and listening to the experiences of others without judgment, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable seeking help when needed.

In conclusion, looking after one’s mental health is an ongoing journey that requires self-awareness and support. If we promote mental wellbeing and advocate for greater awareness and acceptance, we will create a world where everyone can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.

QUOTE

MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS DO NOT DEFINE WHO YOU ARE.

THEY ARE SOMETHING YOU EXPERIENCE.

YOU WALK IN THE RAIN, AND YOU FEEL THE RAIN, BUT YOU ARE NOT THE RAIN.

Gail Hewitt, Senior Employee Counsellor, Lincolnshire County Council