Mental Health Awareness Week (18-24 May) is the UK's national week, led by the Mental Health Foundation to raise awareness of mental health and mental health problems and inspire action to promote the message of good mental health for all
This year’s theme is the power and potential of kindness.
Kindness is defined by doing something towards yourself and others, motivated by a genuine desire to make a positive difference. Research shows that kindness and our mental health are deeply connected. It is an antidote to isolation and creates a sense of belonging. It helps reduce stress, brings a fresh perspective and deepens relationships. Kindness to ourselves helps boost our self-esteem. Kindness can even improve feelings of confidence and optimism
Here at Beeston Primary, during these uncertain times, we are proud that kindness is prevailing in our school and in the wider local community. We have seen that amid the fear, there is also love, support and hope especially for the more vulnerable in our society.
Every day this week we will be uploading information and resources about Mental Health onto our Facebook page and website www.beestonprimaryschool.co.uk.
Also, we are setting a daily ‘random act of kindness’ challenge for families. At the end of the week, we would like to hear your stories and see photographs of what you have been up to. Here is a list of idea’s you may want to choose from:
Call a friend that you haven’t spoken to for a while
Tell a family member how much you love and appreciate them
Make a cup of tea for someone you live with
Arrange to have a cup of tea and virtual catch up with someone you know
Help with a household chore at home
Arrange to watch a film at the same time as a friend and video call
Tell someone you know that you are proud of them
Tell someone you know why you are thankful for them
Send a motivational text to a friend who is struggling
Send someone you know a joke to cheer them up
Send someone you know a picture of a cute animal
Send an inspirational quote to a friend
Send an interesting article to a friend
Contact someone you haven’t seen in a while and arrange a phone catch up
Spend time playing with your pet
Reach out to call a friend, family member or neighbour who is experiencing loneliness or self-isolation
Donate to a charity
Lend your ear – call a colleague and ask how they’re finding the change in routine
Give praise to your colleague for something they’ve done well
Arrange to have a video lunch with a colleague
Send an inspirational story of kindness people around the world are doing for others to someone you know
Donate to foodbanks
Offer to skill share with a friend via video call - you could teach guitar, dance etc.
Offer support to vulnerable neighbours
Offer to send someone a takeaway or a meal
Good luck and enjoy your week, kindness matters!
