WITH Mental Health Awareness Week having just gone by, and this year’s message of ‘kindness’ having been broadcast widely by royals and celebrities, mental health is fresh in our minds - for the time being at least.

Despite these national efforts to encourage conversations about our thoughts, feelings and emotions, mental health is still a taboo subject for many.

Mental health conditions are embedded within the lives of approximately one in four people in the UK each year and cause immeasurable difficulties and limitations.

As a result of the current pandemic, these figures are sadly set to rise with our lives having changed dramatically and quickly - leading to widespread stress, anxiety and uncertainty among those who may never before experienced mental health problems.

Those with existing mental health conditions are facing additional challenges and triggers and may be having difficulty accessing their usual coping mechanisms or support.

Looking after ourselves and others has probably never been as important as it is now.

Placing less pressure on ourselves, doing something each day that makes us happy, and making an effort to be a little kinder can help to manage our feelings.

Being kind and compassionate can significantly improve our wellbeing - whether we are giving or receiving it. Evidence has shown that acts of kindness help our immune system, reduces stress, improves energy levels and is good for our hearts!

Kindness creates a ripple effect which can improve the day of many people at a time whereby they may need this the most.

WITH Mental Health Awareness Week having just gone by, and this year’s message of ‘kindness’ having been broadcast widely by royals and celebrities, mental health is fresh in our minds - for the time being at least.

Despite these national efforts to encourage conversations about our thoughts, feelings and emotions, mental health is still a taboo subject for many.

Mental health conditions are embedded within the lives of approximately one in four people in the UK each year and cause immeasurable difficulties and limitations. As a result of the current pandemic, these figures are sadly set to rise with our lives having changed dramatically and quickly - leading to widespread stress, anxiety and uncertainty among those who may never before experienced mental health problems.

Those with existing mental health conditions are facing additional challenges and triggers and may be having difficulty accessing their usual coping mechanisms or support. Looking after ourselves and others has probably never been as important as it is now. Placing less pressure on ourselves, doing something each day that makes us happy, and making an effort to be a little kinder can help to manage our feelings.

Being kind and compassionate can significantly improve our wellbeing - whether we are giving or receiving it. Evidence has shown that acts of kindness help our immune system, reduces stress, improves energy levels and is good for our hearts! Kindness creates a ripple effect which can improve the day of many people at a time whereby they may need this the most.

Now more than ever, let’s make an effort to be a little kinder, and always remember that it is OK not to be OK.