 Today is World Mental Health Day, a chance to reflect on how we care for our mental wellbeing and support those around us. This year, we’re highlighting the Five Ways to Wellbeing, simple, evidence-based actions that can make a big difference to how we feel.
1. Connect - Reach out to a friend, colleague or neighbour for a chat. Find out how to start a conversation around mental health with these tips from TALKWORKS.
2. Be Active - Whether it’s a walk in the park, a swim, or dancing in your kitchen, movement helps reduce stress and improve your mental health.
3. Keep Learning - Try something new: a recipe, a podcast, or a skill. Learning keeps your brain engaged and builds confidence.
4. Give - A small act of kindness like offering a helping hand or volunteering can create positive feelings and a sense of reward.
5. Take Notice - Pause and appreciate the little things around you while out and about in one of our parks or green spaces. 70% of UK adults agree that being close to nature improves their mood. (Source: Mental Health Foundation, 2021).
To anyone who is finding things hard, there are lots of services that can help:
-
TALKWORKS offer free, NHS talking therapy services locally and you can self-refer.
-
Samaritans are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Whatever you’re going through, call for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org
-
Shout - text 'Shout' to 85258 to chat with a trained Shout volunteer. Free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for support.
 Whether you’re tackling trails, fishing along the estuary, or strolling through the countryside, South East Devon Wildlife wants to know how you enjoy our area’s natural spaces.
Your feedback will help us enhance visitor experiences and protect the Pebblebed Heaths Exe Estuary, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish Countryside Park, and Ridgetop Park.
South East Devon Wildlife works to protect internationally important nature reserves for future generations, working for East Devon, Exeter and Teignbridge councils, in partnership with Natural England, the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust, Devon Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and the Exe Estuary Management Partnership.
Complete the survey to share your visits, map your routes, and tell us what matters to you. Your insights will shape how we care for these landscapes.
 Eligible adults can now get their free flu vaccine. It is important to get protected, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year.
If you are vaccinated and catch flu this winter, you are likely to have milder symptoms and recover faster, cutting your risk of being hospitalised.
All those eligible are urged to join the millions of others who have their free flu vaccine to help them stay strong this winter – don’t put it off, book your appointment today and arm yourself against the risk of severe illness.
You can check your eligibility and book online.
|
