Mental health

Looking after your mental health

Watch our video on 5 ways to wellbeing to see how you can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

Here are the main points with links to more information as well as local organisations that can help you in Essex.

Connect

Connect with the people around you: your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Spend time developing these relationships. Find ways to connect with others near you:

• Essex Connects
• Connect Well
• Community 360
• Essex Activities
• Rethink Mental Illness
• Essex Shed Network

Be active

You don't have to go to the gym or do things that cost money. You can take a walk, go cycling or play a game of football. Find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your life:

• Active Essex
• Visit Essex
• Fitness in Mind

Keep learning

Learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and a new confidence. So why not sign up for that cooking course, start learning to play a musical instrument, or figure out how to fix your bike? Find a course near you:

• ACL (Adult Community Learning)
• Essex Libraries

Give

Even the smallest act can count, whether it's a smile, a thank you or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering at your local community centre, can improve your mental wellbeing and help you build new social networks. Find a volunteering opportunity near you:

• Volunteer Essex
• Essex Libraries

Be mindful

Be more aware of the present moment, including your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you. Some people call this awareness 'mindfulness'. It can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. Learn more about mindfulness here:

• ACL (Adult Community Learning)
• The Mental Health Foundation's online mindfulness course

More information

The NHS offers a range of digital apps for managing your mental health which can be accessed from your computer, phone or tablet.

They also offer a dedicated area called Moodzone with practical advice, interactive tools, videos and audio guides to help you feel mentally and emotionally better.