The effects of mental health problems are huge, and given the challenging times we are living it's more important than ever that we take steps to support good mental health.
The Church of England has updated their mental health reflections booklet with new material to provide hope, reassurance and comfort.
7 of the 13 reflections on Supporting Good Mental Health have been made available as a podcast series, released daily. Listen using the player below, or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
To view all 13 reflections, download or order the booklet and share content on your social media please visit:
Mental Health Support | Weblink
A time to be OK and a time not to be OK
The wisdom of Solomon speaks to our wellbeing; all progress begins with self awareness and we need to be aware of when we are not OK, The Revd Jackson Crompton-Battersby has produced a series videos some focused on mental health and well-being available on his Youtube channel
Mental Health resources | Weblink.
Children's Mental Health Support
"Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem… a quarter of adults said they felt so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they want to do some or all of the time. 6 in 10 adults feel this way, at least some of the time" Mental Health Foundation research (mentalhealth.org.uk). Healthwatch Suffolk report that 2 in 5 young people report ‘moderate’ to ‘severe’ levels of anxiety and the NHS widely share that 1 in 6 children under 16 have probable mental disorders.
"I have 5 children, 3 daughters-in-law and 7 grandchildren, and know that all of them – at ages and stages different from each other – at times feel at least discouraged and challenged; at worst unheard in national decision making; unvalued or misunderstood in their contribution to society; or anxious about ‘getting through’. And I know we are lucky; so many aren’t. Even the little ones gain a language and perception of ‘cost of living crisis’ and a ‘failure to meet standards’, and our youth face fears over their futures after hearing phrases like ‘a lost generation.’" says Hilary Wordsworth-Sewell, Diocesan Children's and Families' Enabler, "We have strategies to address some of these concerns alongside the help from our church communities, but it needs every one of us to do something as often as we are able. So – my challenge to you is this…seek out (at least) one young person, family, or family member and do something to walk alongside them. You could agree to a weekly phone call or meet-up, you could put them in touch with organisations or projects to give them aid, you could let them know their anxieties and fears are heard, and above all – please pray for them. Together we can make a difference, raise awareness and ultimately put action on the agenda. Thank you!".
If you wish for more information please email Hilary Wordsworth-Sewell.
Support is available here:
Bank of resources | Padlet
Mental Health Resources for Young People - Children's Society | Weblink
