Looking after your mental health
Talking about any worries you have is important. If you don’t have anyone you know that you can talk to, there are charity websites and phone lines that you can contact.
You can text 'Kent' to 85258 at any time to access confidential advice and help from Shout, a national mental health charity.
Mental Health Matters is a nationwide service offering a wide range of support to those with mental health needs. They operate a 24/7 helpline, call 0800 107 0160.
The Silverline operate a 24-hour helpline and friendship service for people aged 55 and over. Call 0800 470 80 90.
Our Frontline was launched to support staff working in social care, essential roles, emergency services and healthcare during the pandemic. It is a partnership between Shout, Samaritans, Mind, Hospice UK and The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The service provides round the clock one-to-one support from trained volunteers via call or text.
The Local Government Association (LGA) workforce wellbeing webpages have advice and guidance for supporting and managing the wellbeing of frontline staff who may have been affected.
The Mental Health Foundation has advice on how to look after your mental health.
Remploy provides access to a work mental health support service.
Every Mind Matters highlights that there are lots of things we can all do to look after our mental wellbeing. They also encourages people to complete a personal ‘Mind Plan’ – a quick and free interactive tool offering tailored mental wellbeing advice.
The NHS' top five tips for maintaining mental wellbeing are:
- Talk about your worries;
- Keep a regular routine and set goals;
- Manage your media and information intake;
- Do things you enjoy and try something new;
- Look after your body: our physical health also has a big impact on how we feel.
