Back to Nature for Mental Health Awareness Week
A range of nature-themed activities will be taking place next week as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.
The theme of this year's awareness week, which runs from 10 - 16 May, is nature. This is in recognition of the vital role nature has played in helping so many people through the pandemic. Research by the Mental Health Foundation revealed that walking outside was one of the top coping strategies for people while almost half of people questioned said that green spaces were vital for their mental wellbeing.
In response to this, South Tyneside Council, Change4life Champions and partners are compiling an electronic resources pack highlighting local walks, nature trails and cycle routes where people can get active and connect with nature. South Tyneside has a wealth of walks, cycle routes and nature trails that can be enjoyed by the whole family. To find out more visit http://www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk/article/62543/Sport-leisure
People can also take part in a nature themed photography and poetry challenge. Residents are encouraged to send in a nature inspired poem they have written or a photo they have taken while enjoying the Borough's great outdoors for the chance for it to be included in an exclusive eBook. Submissions can be sent to change4life@southtyneside.gov.uk by 17th May. Alternatively post it on Facebook and tag us in @c4lsouthtyneside
The pack will also contain more general mental health resources, on subjects such as sleep, as well as useful contact details of where help is available. Anyone wishing to receive a pack should email change4life@southtyneside.gov.uk
The Change4Life Champions are running a virtual drop-in via Zoom on 10 May at 10.45am which is open to anyone who wants to chat about mental health or enjoy some company. A number of other virtual events are also being held by various organisations across the Borough. Visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/MHAW for more details and joining instructions.
Councillor Anne Hetherington, Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "The past year has proven to be one of the most challenging most of us have ever experienced and many of us have seen our mental health suffer as a result.
"This year, it is more important than ever to mark Mental Health Awareness Week and get people talking about mental wellbeing.
"As we take steps towards a more normal way of life, I would encourage people to continue to look out for one another, particularly those who are older or who have underlying conditions who may feel more nervous about restrictions being lifted."
To find out more about the activities and events on offer, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/MHAW