Mental Health Awareness Week 2023
Raising awareness and tackling anxiety
This year's Mental Health Awareness Week is from 15 to 21 May and is based on the theme of ‘anxiety’.
We've all experienced anxiety in some way and it’s normal for us all. However, sometimes this can become out of control and take a toll on our mental health.
It’s not uncommon to feel anxious about things like the rising cost of living, big life events, pressures at work or exams.
According to the Mental Health Foundation, in a recent mental health survey about stress, anxiety and worries over personal finances, a quarter of adults said they felt so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they want to do some or all of the time.
Anxiety can be easy to manage though.
How Can We Get Involved in Mental Health Awareness Week?
Raise awareness about anxiety by talking about it in the classroom and the workplace. This will help to reduce the stigma around anxiety and mental health by increasing knowledge and understanding about it.
Use these mental health resources for schools, parents, caregivers and young people created by the Mental Health Foundation, as well as their Professional Learning Resource for School Staff, which aims to provide information for school staff about mental health and well-being and guides them through how this can be applied to practical strategies and approaches in schools.
You can also wear a green ribbon to show your support. This is the international symbol for mental health awareness. If you order from the Mental Health Foundation, all proceeds will go towards their vital work as a charity focused on mental health and prevention.
How Can We Cope With Feelings of Anxiety?
Dealing with anxiety is difficult but there are a number of strategies and coping mechanisms that can help:
- Taking regular breaks at work
- Do something to take your mind off what’s worrying you e.g. exercise, go for a walk, listen to music, read a book
- Exercise
- Go outside
- Practice mindfulness or meditation
- Use a journal or keep a diary
- Challenge negative thoughts e.g. ask yourself, is this really true? Am I being realistic?
- Get support or ask someone for help
- Talk to a friend or family member about how you're feeling
- Get a good night’s sleep and keep a healthy sleep routine
- Maintain a healthy diet
Read more here about how to self-care for anxiety.