More people are struggling with anxiety and depression than ever before, due to the fear of the coronavirus pandemic and the changes to our lives that have occurred since lockdown restrictions were put in place.
This is why Mental Health Awareness Week, which kicked off on May 18th, is more important than ever, raising awareness of emotional struggles. This year’s theme focuses on kindness, reminding people to be gentle on themselves and each other.
The organisation chose kindness as the theme to encourage the public to show compassion and consideration of others, particularly during this challenging time.
“Kindness strengthens relationships, develops community and deepens solidarity. It is a cornerstone of our individual and collective mental health. Wisdom from every culture across history recognises that kindness is something that all human beings need to experience and practice to be fully alive,” chief executive for the Mental Health Foundation Mark Rowland stated.
During the coronavirus crisis, there have already been several incidences of kindness – from volunteers helping those in need to people raising considerable amounts of money to support the NHS.
The organisation states that kindness and mental health are “deeply connected”, as it reduces stress, strengthens friendships, boosts self-esteem, increases confidence and raises optimism. Therefore, it is essential that more people are brave enough to pursue acts of kindness to help others when they need it the most.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity not only during but also following this pandemic for a reset and re-think about what kind of society we want to emerge from this crisis,” Mr Rowland said, adding: “Applied kindness could have a transformative impact on our schools, places of work, communities and families.”
Those who would like to get involved with Mental Health Awareness Week have been encouraged to share their stories and pictures of acts of generosity using the hashtag #KindnessMatters.
The organisation suggested sharing your skills, such as sewing masks for key workers, offering to help with technology for older people, or giving recipe ideas to friends. Helping those who need it the most is also really important, such as donating to a foodbank, calling a friend who has been living alone in lockdown, buying food for those who are self-isolating, or volunteering for a local community organisation.
While it is important to look after others, it is also essential to be kind to yourself. The Mental Health Foundation recommends prioritising ‘me’ time to reflect on your feelings, switching off from social media for a day, treating yourself, doing something you enjoy and spending time in nature.
Mental Health UK also suggested sending inspirational quotes to someone at the start of the day to set them up on a positive note.
Saint Francis of Assisi’s quote “Start by doing what’s necessary, then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible” could give people the strength to survive the current difficult situation.
Alternatively, the Persian adage “This too shall pass” could prove very apt at this moment in time.
For mindfulness therapy in London to help with mental health struggles, get in touch with The Mindful Therapist today.