It’s Mental Health Awareness Week! We couldn’t think of a better time for everyone to show their support.
Mental Health problems can affect anyone. The issues don’t have a favourite gender, a specified income or a preferential age bracket. Anyone can suffer, and too many choose to do so silence. This week is your chance to have a chat with a friend, family member or colleague as well as thinking about your own wellbeing too.
We know that there are many factors that can impact on your mental health. What many don’t know is how strongly noise can impact on your mental state. Even small increases in unwanted ambient sound have significant effects. In 2011, for example, scientists studying people living near seven major European airports found that a 10-decibel increase in aircraft noise was associated with a 28 percent increase in anxiety medication use. Another study found that people living in areas with more road traffic noise were 25 percent more likely than those living in quieter areas, to have symptoms of depression. There have also been studies, which identify a possible link between excessive noise exposure and Alzheimer’s disease. If you have any concerns for yourself or for your workforce, we will work with you to help find a solution to any noise concerns.
If you or someone close to you is suffering, there are plenty of things you can do to help improve your mental health. Sometimes taking a little time for yourself can be essential for your wellbeing, so don’t feel guilty for it. Try learning something new or setting yourself a challenge. This can help to boost your confidence and can give you a sense of achievement. The Mental Health Foundation are running hundreds of events this year to get people talking. There is a range of free events you can attend such as Latin dance classes, crafting classes, a how to guide on becoming a ‘stress buster’ and even free massages! Click on the map below to find out the closest events to you:
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week/event-map
Sometimes a glass of wine with a good friend can be all the therapy you need. However, if you are finding things really difficult, reach out. There are so many people out there that want to help you, all you have to do is ask. For the people that don’t know where to start, start here: https://www.mind.org.uk/
Always remember: You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.
