Five Ways to Wellbeing

Give - Research into actions for promoting happiness has shown that committing an act of kindness once a week over a six week period is associated with an increase in wellbeing.

Relate to other people, connect - Evidence suggests that being able to relate to, and feel valued by, other people is a fundamental human need and one that helps us to function well in the world around us.

Exercise, be active, - Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups.  Exercise doesn't need to be particularly intense for you to feel good and slower paced activities, such as walking, can be done with others and so encourage social interactions - as well as providing a degree of exercise.

Appreciate, take notice - Take some time to 'enjoy the moment' and appreciate the environment around you.  Reminding yourself to 'take notice' can strengthen and broaden awareness and being aware of what is happening in the present can directly enhance your well-being.

Try something new - Continuing to learn throughout life enhances self-esteem and encourages social interaction and a more active life.  Feedback from others suggests that the opportunity to engage in work or educational activities particularly helps lift older people out of depression.

See below for some links to websites containing information about mental health and wellbeing: -

Mind - for better mental health - Explains how to improve and maintain your mental wellbeing, whether you have a diagnosis of a mental health condition or not.

NHS Inform - Mental health and wellbeing - This area of the NHS Inform website can help you to improve your mental health and wellbeing by providing high-quality, trustworthy information on different aspects of mental health and wellbeing.

Mental Health Foundation - Anyone can make simple changes that have a huge impact on their mental health and wellbeing. See these ten practical ways to take care of yourself and get the most from life.