*  Adapted from advice given by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council

Taking care of our mental health and checking in on others is something that we can all do. School holidays are great, but the change in routine and not seeing familiar school faces daily can be a real challenge for some of us.  Remember when they tell you on aeroplanes that you need to put on your own oxygen mask before helping others, it’s like that. Try to plan your days or weeks to include something from each of the ‘5 ways to wellbeing’.

1. BE ACTIVE

Regular physical activity is associated with lower rates of depression and it doesn’t have to be intense to make a difference. Do as much or as little as you can – you could try walking, dancing, running, cycling or gardening.

2. CONNECT

People who are connected with family, friends or people living in their community are happier, physically healthier, live longer and generally have fewer problems mental health problems. To connect with others, you could join a group, help a friend, family member or colleague or try volunteering.

3. GIVE

It has been proven that people who offer an act of kindness once a week over a six-week period report an improvement in their wellbeing. Giving could be smiling at someone and saying thank you. It could be volunteering within the local community or doing something nice for a friend.

4. KEEP LEARNING

People should never stop learning. Learning throughout life enhances self-esteem, increases confidence, encourages social interaction and generally leads to people having a more active life. Why not learn a new skill like cooking, playing an instrument, fixing a bike, photography or painting.

5. TAKE NOTICE

Life can be very busy with little time to stop and reflect. Studies have shown that when people are aware of what is taking place in the present it directly enhances well-being. People worry less about the future and what has happened in the past and can see what really matters, allowing them to make positive choices. Stopping and observing; spending time with friends and family; enjoying nature; and taking a different route home from work or the shops noticing what is different are all ways to take notice.

Also think about planning other activities into your day:

• Help with household/gardening chores or with younger siblings
• Getting out in the fresh air – walking, bike rides etc
• Creative/crafting activities
• Reading alone or to others
• Seeing family/friends
• Time-limited on-line activities such as gaming
• Watching TV/YouTube etc
• Pure downtime