World Mental Health Day

Today is World Mental Health Day. The day is an opportunity to improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health.

We’re encouraging everyone to take action this World Mental Health Day and find out ‘what works’ to protect their mental health and prevent problems. The Mental Health Foundation has evidence based tips which include talking to someone you trust for support, being physically active, eating healthy food and planning things to look forward to.

Making plans for things we enjoy can increase our sense of hope and connection – both of which are important for our mental health. That’s why we’re taking part in the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival this year. In partnership with Live Borders and Health in Mind, we’ve put together a day of relaxed and creative workshops at Melrose Corn Exchange on Saturday 21 October.

There will be an open craft session, a creative writing workshop and a breath and body movement session in the morning followed by an afternoon of workshops hosted by the NHS Borders Arts Therapies Team. You can then join the Health in Harmony choir for a performance that brings together the three afternoon workshops in a celebration of creativity and wellbeing.

The day will end with a scripted reading of monologues from people with lived experience, developed with support from NHS Borders Mental Health services and Health in Mind.

Steph Mackenzie, Health Improvement Specialist at NHS Borders said: “This World Mental Health Day is a great opportunity to find what works for you and your mental health. If this seems daunting and you are unsure where to start, why not come along to our day of workshops as part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival?

“The free workshops are informal, fun, creative and a great way to connect with other people and immerse yourself in something different. One of the workshops may even inspire you to take up a new activity that supports your mental wellbeing.”

To reserve your space at the sessions please visit the Live Borders website Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival: Create @ The Corn Exchange - Events - Live Borders.

 

To find more resources and information about looking after your mental health and wellbeing and the support available, please visit the NHS Borders Wellbeing Point.