Move more, feel better: Mental Health Awareness Week & Beyond!

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week this week. This year’s theme is all about movement: how getting active can boost your mood and overall well-being. Even small bursts of activity throughout the day can make a big difference!

 Finding moments for movement:

We know life can be busy, but finding time to move doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some ideas:

  • Short bursts: Do some stretches or light exercises while the kettle boils, waiting for the kids, or for a bus. These small moments add up
  • Make it fun: Find activities you enjoy, like dancing, gardening, or a brisk walk.

 Self-care for your mental well-being:

Movement is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some other ways to prioritise your mental health:

  • Self-care: Schedule daily activities you find relaxing, like reading, mindfulness, or a nature walk.
  • Stay connected: Reach out to friends and family, even for a quick chat. Sharing feelings can lighten the load and create a sense of belonging.
  • Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude by focusing on the positives in your life. Taking a moment each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for can significantly boost your mood.
  • Prioritise Sleep and Nutrition: Good sleep and a balanced diet are foundational pillars of overall health, including mental well-being.
  • Seek support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re struggling. Talk to a trusted friend, mental health professional, support services (see below) or the Surgery.

URGENT SUPPORT:

If you are thinking about ending your life, please call 999 or go to A&E.

If you are in crisis, you can call 111 and press option 2 for immediate mental health support.

 For other services that are able to support:

  • The Samaritans offer emotional support 24 hours a day – in full confidence. Call 116 123 – it’s FREE. Or email jo@samaritans.org.uk For more information: https://www.samaritans.org/
  • Shout 85258: For free, confidential support, 24/7, text SHOUT to 85258. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, trained Shout volunteers are available day or night. Shout can help with urgent issues such as abuse, anxiety, panic attacks as well as a range of others. For more information: https://giveusashout.org/get-help/
  • Anxiety UK: Helpline services – 03444 775 774, open from 9:30am to 17:30pm Mon to Friday. For more information: anxietyuk.org.uk
  • CALM Helpline: The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against suicide. You can talk to CALM about anything. Call the CALM helpline on 0800 58 58 58 The helpline open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year. For more information: https://www.thecalmzone.net/get-support
  • MIND: Have a range of services both nationally and locally. They offer an information line Call the Mind Infoline on 0300 123 3393 (UK landline calls are charged at local rates, and charges from mobile phones will vary considerably). Or email info@mind.org.uk  For more information: https://www.mind.org.uk/

In Thetford there is also the MIND REST Hub (Recover, Eat, Support and Talk). This brings together mental health support as well as local services where everyone can feel welcome. You will need to be referred and this can be done via:

  • Self-Referral: Call 0300 330 5488 and Option 1
  • GP Referral: The surgery can refer you to the hub.

The hubs are in two locations in the town, these are:

Breckland House

St Nicholas Street

Thetford

IP24 1BT

And

REST Thetford, 

16 Riverside Walk, 

Thetford 

IP24 2BG

 We’re here for you:

At School Lane Surgery we’re committed to supporting your mental health journey. We offer a range of services, including:

  • Enhanced Recovery Workers (ERWs): Rebecca and Rosie can help with anxiety, bereavement, and other mental health concerns.
  • Mental Health Practitioner: Christel provides support, counselling, and coping strategies.
  • Social Prescriber: Andrea connects patients with community resources and support networks. 
  • GPs: Our doctors can refer you to specialist services if needed.

 Remember, you’re not alone! Let’s work together to create a world where mental health is valued and support is readily available.