It’s Mental Health Awareness Week.
All of us have mental health, just as we have physical health. Throughout our lives, we face challenges, pressures, and moments of uncertainty and learning how to navigate these experiences is an important part of looking after our overall wellbeing.
At Orwell, we’re proud to have 36 trained Mental Health First Aiders across the organisation. They’re here to support colleagues whenever they need it, whether that’s offering a listening ear or helping someone find external services that can provide additional guidance.
Hearing from Our Mental Health First Aiders
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we reached out to our Mental Health First Aiders to share the tips, habits, and simple everyday practices that help them look after their own wellbeing. They also offered pieces of advice they’ve found effective when supporting others.
- “Make time for physical activity, whether it’s football, a gym class, or any movement you enjoy. Exercise can be a great way to reset!”
- “Prioritise a healthy sleep routine. Experiment to find what works for you, how much sleep you need, when to start winding down, and when to switch off tech so your mind can properly rest.”
- “Try a simple craft or colouring activity. The result doesn’t matter, focusing on something creative, even for a short time, can be a calming way to switch off and reset.”
- “Take things one step at a time. If you’re working toward a change, break your goal into realistic, bitesize chunks so it feels manageable and achievable.”
- “Take a walk at lunchtime or after work. A bit of fresh air and movement can help clear your mind and release the stress that builds up during the day.”
- “I use an app called My Possible Self, it has podcasts, calming techniques, meditation, breathing exercises, and journaling tools that really help relax a stressed mind.”
The tips shared by our Mental Health First Aiders highlight how many simple, everyday actions can support our wellbeing, from movement and creativity to rest and mindful routines.
By encouraging open conversations and creating space for people to share what works for them, we’re continuing to build an inclusive, supportive culture at Orwell where looking after our mental health is something we do together.
For more support, there are a range of mental health services available across Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex. If you or someone you know could benefit from extra help, you can find out more here: Mental Health Matters: Orwell’s growing team of Mental Health First Aiders | Orwell Housing
