So, what can you do to help support your mental health?
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness exercises are ways of paying attention to the present moment using techniques like meditation, breathing, and yoga. Training helps people become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and body sensations so that instead of being overwhelmed, they’re better able to manage them.
5 mindfulness activities to calm the inner storm
Body Scan Meditation:
Lie down or sit comfortably in a quiet place. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your toes. Notice any sensations you feel, such as tingling, warmth, or pressure. Slowly scan your body, moving your attention up your legs, torso, arms, and neck, until you reach the top of your head. Pay attention to any sensations you notice in each area.
Mindful Breathing:
Sit comfortably and bring your attention to your breath. Feel the rise and fall of your chest and abdomen as you breathe in and out. Notice the sensations of the air entering and leaving your nostrils. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath without judgment.
Mindful Walking:
As you walk, bring your attention to the sensations of your feet touching the ground. Notice the feeling of your weight shifting from one foot to the other. Pay attention to the textures and sounds around you. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the sensations of your feet and your surroundings.
Mindful Eating:
When you eat, slow down and savor each bite. Take time to appreciate the colors, smells, and textures of your food. Notice the taste of your food in your mouth. Chew slowly and mindfully.
Mindful Gratitude:
Take a few minutes to reflect on things you are grateful for. It can be anything from the warmth of the sun on your skin to the love of your family. Writing down your gratitudes can make this exercise even more powerful.
Wirral services that are aimed at young people to support them with their mental health:
Wirral Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS):
https://www.cwp.nhs.uk/our-services/wirral/camhs-0-18-wirral
This service provides a range of mental health services for children and young people aged 0-18 in Wirral. They offer assessment, treatment, and support for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Mental Health Wirral:
https://wirralmind.org.uk/
This charity provides a range of mental health services for young people in Wirral. They offer counseling, group therapy, and workshops. They also have a young people’s support group called “The Hive”.
The Hive Wirral:
https://www.thehiveyouthzone.org/
This youth zone provides a safe and supportive space for young people aged 11-19. They offer a range of activities and services, including counseling, mentoring, and sports.
Wirral Young Persons Counselling Service:
https://www.wirral.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/youth-services/youth-matters-wirral
This service provides free and confidential counseling for young people aged 11-19. They offer counseling for a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationships, and bullying.
In addition to these specific services, there are also a number of other resources available for young people in Wirral who are struggling with their mental health. These include:
The Kooth app:
https://www.kooth.com/
This app provides free and confidential online counseling for young people aged 11-18.
Young Minds:
https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/
This charity has a website with information and resources about mental health for young people. They also have a helpline that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Papyrus:
https://www.papyrus-uk.org/
This charity provides information and resources for young people who are thinking about suicide. They also have a helpline that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please reach out for help. There are many people who care about you and want to help.
Please fill this form in to go through some questions to help identify what support you need.
https://forms.office.com/e/4Hf4mHjakD