Today, 9 May 2022, marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness week (9 - 15 May), led by the Mental Health Foundation. This year, the week is centred around loneliness:
“For Mental Health Awareness Week this year, we're raising awareness of the impact of loneliness on our mental health and the practical steps we can take to address it.”
This is pretty relevant to us over at Eden Project Communities. We believe that we’re better together. We have a vision of a world full of happier and healthier communities, where people know one another and neighbourhoods thrive.
So, to join in and support Mental Health Awareness week, we are sharing some resources to signpost you in the right direction to take action against loneliness.
1. What is loneliness & how can we reduce it?
Loneliness is an internal warning sign that lets us know something needs to change. If you are feeling lonely, this is your sign to take action. We’ve got you. Here are some tips to help reduce loneliness in yourself and others:
2. How to cope with loneliness and improve your mental health
The Mental Health Foundation shares comprehensive advice to help you improve your own mental health:
3. Send a postcard to show that you care
To brighten someone’s day, let them know you’re there for them, or to give them the option to talk... our free postcards/e-cards can be downloaded and printed or shared online to your loved ones:
4. Remember, you’re not alone.
Check out some of the inspirational and moving stories from others who have experienced loneliness:
5. Extra resources
The Mental Health Foundation have put together amazing resources accessible for all ages on their website, here are just a few:
6. Sign up for a Big Lunch
6.6 million people say that the Big Lunch helped them feel less lonely. If you haven’t already, give it a go, download your free pack here and send out invites.
You never know, the invite received by your neighbour might be the highlight of their week.
Don’t forget, Loneliness Awareness week is also around the corner (13-15 June)...
Hosted by Marmalade Trust, Loneliness Awareness Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of loneliness and get people talking about it.
