Help keep yourself mentally well over winter
There’s extra help for you to keep mentally healthy this winter with the launch of a mental health support card being distributed in health and council settings across Kirklees.
The leaflet features information and links to various support options available to people who may need extra help during the colder and darker months. It’ll be available in locations like GP practices, hospitals, pharmacies, libraries and other council buildings.
At a time of year when people are often looking after their physical health, health professionals in Kirklees are wanting to make sure people take as much care of their mental health as well.
Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Director of Public Health for Kirklees, said:
“We know that the shorter days and darker nights can impact on your emotional well-being and mental health. The changes in temperature and fewer hours of sunlight can also affect your mood.
“It is important to look after yourself, get out to exercise and meet people as well as making the most of the daylight hours when you can to keep yourself mentally well
and these support cards are small enough to place in your purse, wallet or pocket.
Vicky Dutchburn, Accountable Officer and Senior Responsible Officer for Mental Health in Kirklees for the NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board said:
“Partners across Kirklees have been working on providing an updated support card that offers help to those who might need it over winter, and I am delighted with the results. I look forward to seeing them in GP surgeries, pharmacies and other places in the area.
“The cards contain details of organisations across Kirklees which provide you with a range of activities to support and improve your emotional well-being and mental health.
“Making that first call or meeting can be overwhelming, but by taking those first steps for yourself, or with the support of a family member or friend, these organisations could enable you to resolve your emotional or mental health challenges.”
Top tips for mental health
Things to remember:
- Pick up a card and follow the links for more details.
- Support is out there for you, so always carry the card. You are not alone.
- Keep well and stay safe over the autumn and winter months
Top tips for winter:
- Try to stay active and get out for a walk in the daytime if possible.
- Try and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Try to get some daylight which could include sitting near a window if you can’t get out.
- Try to keep in touch with others, even if it’s by text or phone.
If you can’t get out, try to keep your mind active by reading, crafting or playing puzzles.
You can find more information about mental health support services on the Kirklees Council and Kirklees Health and Care Partnership websites.