The benefits of work experience
Surrey Choices will be taking a look at what it can do for the well-being and good mental health of it’s customers, staff and partner organisations as we launch our ‘Smile Your Blues Away’ month. We will be exploring a mix of ways to improve your well-being and happiness over four weeks of helpful hints and tips.
January is a great time to reflect on the previous year whilst introducing something new and positive into our lives.
For instance:
* Learn a BSL or Makaton sign
* Walk to the shops instead of driving
* Take part in some light exercise. Buddy up with a friend to increase your motivation.
* Car share with a colleague (see who has the best taste in music!)
* Contact someone you haven’t spoken to for a while
* Check on a neighbour who may be in need
* Watch a new TV programme
* Enrol on an online course. There are plenty available for free!
Research conducted for the Surrey-i says that one in six people nationally will be living with a mental health problem at any one time. In Surrey alone, it is estimated that 24,000 older people aged 65+ will experience depression in the year 2020.
It is vital that we care and give support to those who find themselves with a mental health need. We also need to develop new local services and deliver the support in a suitable environment.
Surrey Choices The Larches Hub in Epsom operates an out of hours mental health crisis drop in centre. This service supported by the local NHS CCG and local charity the Mary Frances Trust has provided hours of contact time to those in the local area in need of care and their carers, especially when a traditional hospital isn’t the correct environment to offer calm and managed support. Read more about this developing external service.
Try and smile your blues away this January and keep in touch on our social media channels and see how we can all raise awareness and provide support for those with mental health problems.
Click here to find details on our Smile Your Blues Away Tea Party
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