Publish date: 14 May 2024
This week (13 – 19 May) is Mental Health Awareness week and this year’s theme is movement: moving for our mental health.
Mental Health Awareness week was first launched in 2001 by the Mental Health Foundation and over the years it has grown to be a prominent fixture in the calendar across the UK.
For our Grenfell impacted communities, Mental Health Awareness week is a timely reminder to look after our emotional wellbeing. For some, the lead up to the 7-year anniversary next month may bring up difficult feelings and memories. Furthermore, we are aware that there has been increased media coverage of events, nationally and globally, which may also resonate with issues and feelings linked to Grenfell.
One of the most important things we can do protect our mental health is regular movement. Our bodies and our minds are connected, so looking after ourselves physically helps us to prevent problems with our mental health.
Exercise releases “feel good” hormones, that reduce feelings of stress and anger. It also helps us feel better about our bodies. It can improve our sleep too. If it involves other people, like being part of a team, a class or group we see regularly, that can also boost our mental health.
Despite these benefits, so many of us struggle to move enough. We know there are many different reasons for this, so this Mental Health Awareness Week we want to help people to find moments for movement in their daily routines.
The thought of “exercise” can be off putting to many people but small things like going for a walk in your neighbourhood, putting on your favourite music and dancing around the living room, chair exercises when you’re watching TV – it all counts towards moving your body.
There are many benefits of movement for mental health which range from improved mood, reduced anxiety, lowered inflammation and stress, improved memory and concentration, increased confidence, improved sleep and even increased social connectedness.
We in the NHS are also here to help
If you are affected by Grenfell, the NHS Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service, is here for you and your family. To access support please call 020 8637 6279 (every day 8am to 8pm) or 0800 0234 650 (overnight: from 8pm). For more information go to grenfellwellbeing.cnwl.nhs.uk/
For emotional support, health and wellbeing support, and urgent mental health support, call 0800 0234 650, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For further information about local health support go to: www.rbkc.gov.uk/grenfell-response-and-recovery/support/nhs-support