Mental Health and Loneliness
Mental Health and feelings of loneliness very often go hand in hand. But loneliness affects many across the UK. It has a huge impact on physical and mental health, especially during the recent pandemic.
Making connections with others and belonging to a supportive community has a huge impact on our ability to manage adversity while maintaining a positive state of mental wellbeing.
Socialising with others has multiple benefits for good mental health. Meeting a friend or neighbour, going for a walk, enjoying a cup of tea, volunteering, participating in sport, club activity or class, give meaning and purpose to our lives and we feel more confident.
Opportunities to chat, smile, laugh and make memories with others in social situations serves to distract us from anxiety. We focus outwards instead of inwards. Sharing and talking through concerns with others can decrease stress levels.
Making connections is essential for good mental health. Reducing loneliness results in a mentally healthy society.
Why not try these ideas, to connect with others? You may feel more content and positive as a result.
1. Call, or send a message to tell someone you are thinking of them
2. Do a random act of kindness to make life a little easier for someone
3. Give positive comments to as many people as possible
4. Make time to have a friendly chat with a neighbour or friend
5. Thank someone and tell them how they made a difference for you
6. Smile at people you see and brighten their day
7. Check in on someone who may be struggling and offer help if you can
8. Respond kindly to everyone you talk to, including yourself
9. Thank three people you feel grateful to and tell them why
10. Make uninterrupted time for your loved ones
Join us!
We have lots of activities that take place every week with the aim of supporting your wellbeing through social connection, engagement, enjoyment and self-expression. Find out what is going on here.
Poetry and Mental Health
Poetry is a form of expression that spans millennia. Writing poetry ourselves lets us explore our feelings and thoughts. Reading it helps us to connect, find meaning in our experiences, or think differently about the world and each other.
… and we at SLT know everyone’s a poet at heart! Whether with pen and paper, or the latest technology, we are encouraging you to send in your verses, stanzas and sonnets for publication on our Poetry Corner page.
We also plan to bring you a series of free workshops and to publish a pamphlet of your poems. If you or anyone you know would help us in making this a reality, please make a donation here.
Further support and resources:
For top tips and advice on how to manage stress, for better wellbeing and peace of mind, please visit: Stress Awareness Day: Stress and Self Help
Read tips for being kind to yourself and maintaining wellbeing your wellbeing. Members of the Stuart Low Trust community share their tips for self-care: Members of the Stuart Low Trust Community Give Their Tips For Wellbeing
Thrive LDN: Thrive LDN is a citywide movement to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Londoners. It is supported by the Mayor of London and led by the London Health Board partners.
Mental Health Foundation: Prevention is at the heart of what the Mental Health Foundation do. Their vision is good mental health for all. Their mission is to help people understand, protect and sustain their mental health.
