Take a fresh approach to looking after your mental well-being this spring

Spring has sprung and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people in Fermanagh to explore new ways of looking after their health and wellbeing using the Five Ways to Wellbeing approach.

“Spring is a great opportunity to take a fresh approach to looking after your mental health,” said Brendan Bonner. Head of Health and Wellbeing Improvement with the PHA in the Western area.

“With the brighter nights coming in, there is more opportunity to get out and about, whether that be exercising, meeting up with friends or taking up a new hobby.”

The Five Ways to Wellbeing were developed by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) and are:

• Connect – engage with the people around you- family, friends, colleagues and neighbours.
• Be active – exercising can make you feel good.
• Take notice – be aware of the world around you and what you are feeling.
• Keep learning – try something new or rediscover an old interest.
• Give – do something nice for a friend or a stranger.

The PHA has been working closely with partners such as Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Oak Healthy Living Centre, Arc Healthy Living Centre, Arts Care and Action Mental Health to explore opportunities and access for people to adopt the Five Ways to Wellbeing approach.

“In the past year alone over 1,500 local people of all ages have taken part in PHA-supported events including photography lessons, children’s drama and art groups, men’s activity projects, 5k runs, anolder people’s engagement project and health information coffee mornings,” said Brendan.

“These were all based around the Five Ways to Wellbeing and improving their physical and emotional wellbeing.
“I would encourage local people to find out more about activities in their area through their local community group or council and get involved.”

More information on looking after your mental health, and the support available across Northern Ireland can be found at www.mindingyourhead.info