Hi there, Andy back again this week and I wanted to focus on mental health in this week’s Mayor’s Column.
Frome Town Council has hosted some free training this week, its focus was looking after our children and young people’s mental health. It offered advice and signposting to those who attended as we know that broaching the subject of mental health can be challenging for parents, carers and those in supportive roles, so having the information at your fingertips or knowing where to turn to can be invaluable.
Not everyone is the same and there’s not one solution for everyone but having options and details is important, you can find the information from the session on FTC’s website.
One of the take outs from the meeting, which can be used by all ages, is the “Daily Mental Health Check-in”, it details out 10 things that we can all do daily to make sure we can be in the best mental health. I’ve listed them below, to lead by example, I’ve popped some of the things that I do on a daily basis too:
The first two are “Eat well” and “Keep yourself hydrated” – looking after yourself physically can help yourself mentally too. I would also like to add making sure you get enough sleep too, but I am sometimes guilty of not getting enough!
Following this we have “Do something you enjoy” and “Keep active in mind and body” – for me, it’s music, whether it’s listening or playing, – playing the drums definitely keeps me active, and while we can’t perform at the moment, practising is undeniably good for me and gets the endorphins rushing!
“Stay connected” – In a time where we’re not able to meet up and see our friends and family, still staying connected is important – give those you miss a call, drop them a note or chat to them online instead. Keep the lines of communication open, it’s good for you! I also do this by chatting to folks at work or recording my podcast with my guest of the week.
“Take a break” – step away from the desk and from the screens and just take a break every now and then. Go to one of our wonderful parks and open spaces, take in the fresh air and get a dose of vitamin D. No matter how busy you are, make time each day to get outside, anywhere that you are surrounded by trees, plants, flowers, and grass – we’re lucky in Frome to have plenty!
“Care for others” – Back in the first lockdown we asked you to check in on your neighbours, you did that in your droves, many are still doing this and have made new friends on their street. Caring for other can make us feel needed and valued and that boosts our self-esteem.
“Talk about your feelings” – Talking about your feelings isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a great way to cope with a problem. And just being listened to can help you feel supported and less alone. And it works both ways. If you open up, it might encourage others to do the same, it’s a win-win.
“Ask for help” – None of us are superhuman. We all sometimes get tired or overwhelmed by how we feel or when things go wrong. If things are getting too much for you and you feel you can’t cope, ask for help, whether from a friend, family, co- worker, or local services (details can be found in the above link).
“Be proud of yourself” – we’ve all been through a lot this past year, don’t underestimate the impact of the last 12 months, as a town, I believe Frome has surpassed itself and I am proud of each and every one of you.
