Local organisations are coming together to support and promote community events for Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May).
These include cycling, nature walks, rowing, make your own ‘self care package’ and more - just keep an eye on our ‘Shetland Sport and Leisure’ Facebook page for details.
The Active Shetland Strategy Group includes members from Shetland Islands Council, NHS Shetland, Ability Shetland, sportscotland, ZetTrans and Shetland Recreational Trust.
This year’s theme highlights the importance of taking proactive steps to support mental health. We are also encouraging people to get in touch with nature, challenge themselves, or try something new during the week - whether it’s taking a mindful walk outdoors, learning a new skill, or stepping outside of your comfort zone. Small actions like these can have a meaningful impact on mental wellbeing and help build resilience over time.
To help everyone get involved the Council’s Sport and Leisure Service have pulled together a Mental Wellness Bingo card – and is encouraging everyone to have a go at achieving as many of the activities on it as they can. Some are very quick and simple, and some will take a little bit more effort, but we believe that they can all help to make you feel better.
As part of the campaign, we are promoting the 5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing, as recommended by the NHS. These evidence-based actions can help people feel more positive and get the most out of life:
- Connect – Build relationships with the people around you
- Be Active – Engage in regular physical activity to boost mood and energy
- Take Notice – Be mindful and aware of the present moment
- Keep Learning – Try something new or take on a different challenge
- Give – Offer your time, words, or presence to others
Eoin Leask is Active Schools Coordinator: “We’re encouraging everyone in the community to take part in the activities happening this week, and to take a moment to reflect on their own mental health and that of those around them.”