Every Mind Matters - Norfolk County Council marks World Mental Health Day

To mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, Public Health at Norfolk County Council is urging residents to look after their mental health and wellbeing.

Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "Everyone should prioritise looking after their own mental wellbeing and that of family and friends. This leads all of us to live happier, healthier lives - we may find we become better equipped to deal with problems, we sleep better and have more positive relationships.

"Making time each day to support our wellbeing is not as hard as you think, it is simple things like taking your dog for a walk, meeting up with a friend or starting up a new hobby - they can all help you to feel brighter and more positive. I'd encourage everyone to take a look at Every Mind Matters, an excellent online tool endorsed by the NHS. There's a wealth of information from wellbeing and self-help tips, to exercise advice and a free, personalised Mind Plan to help with issues such as anxiety and low mood".

Dr Ardyn Ross, GP and Clinical Mental Health Lead for NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: "We all have mental health - sometimes it's good and sometimes we need support with it to stay well. Prevention is the best cure and there are many local resources that can support with your mental wellbeing, please do take a look at Improving Lives Together

"We also have five community Wellbeing Hubs where people can drop in, without an appointment, to discuss their health and wellbeing and any issues that are affecting their mental health.

"As winter approaches and the days grow shorter, it's important to find positive ways of looking after ourselves. If you start to feel unsafe, or distressed, you can contact the urgent mental health helpline by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option."

Further information on how you can look after your wellbeing with access to local resources in the community can also be found on our Take 5 to look after your wellbeing page.