This week is Children’s Mental Health Week and there will be all sorts of events and information available at various schools and colleges across the country.  The aim of the week is to promote the idea of “being healthy inside and out” and this is the strap line of the campaign.

Most people know the benefits of a healthy body, taking enough exercise, eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep.  It is just as important to look after mental health, to care for our bodies inside and out.  With all the pressures of everyday life, it can be difficult to “switch off” from our thoughts and feelings.  Here are five suggestions for you as a child, an adult and/ or to share with others.

1. Turn on the radio or your favourite song and dance and sing along
2. Doodle – draw – colour in.  Find some pens, crayons or pencils and make your own mark
3. Read a book. 
4. Talk to someone you trust, share your thoughts.
5. Try a simple breathing exercise – in through the nose, hold for 3 secs, out slowly through the mouth.

More information for children, parents and schools can be found at the Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week Website

https://www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk/