In the lead up to Mental Health Awareness Week (18 – 24 May), the local NHS is launching its annual #MindMay8 social media campaign to raise awareness of the support available to children and young people for their mental health and wellbeing.
This year’s campaign also encourages young people in Leeds to consider two topics – ‘sleep’ and ‘kindness’ – and how important both are for positive mental wellbeing during this uncertain time.
The #MindMay8 campaign aims to raise the profile of the MindMate website www.mindmate.org.uk among children and young people across the city, encouraging them to visit the website for advice on mental health and signposting to services in Leeds who can help. The campaign highlights the importance of seeking help for those struggling with their mental health, as many services continue to provide support throughout the coronavirus outbreak.
Dr Jane Mischenko, Lead Commissioner for Children and Maternity at NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group, said:
“#MindMay8 is taking place under unprecedented circumstances this year, so it’s important that young people are aware of the support that continues to be available to them during this time.
“The MindMate website www.mindmate.org.uk has a wealth of resources that young people can use for support and advice, as well as directing them to local services. We’ve also set up a page specifically around how you can take care of your mental wellbeing during the coronavirus outbreak. We know it’s not easy to talk about mental health, so we want to encourage young people to have open conversations about their wellbeing, and to reach out for help when they need it.
“Through our social media platforms, we want to remind young people of the importance of self-care and kindness, and the positive impact they have on our mental wellbeing. If you’re a parent, carer or a professional who works with young people, it would be great if you could share this campaign.”
#MindMay8 will also promote the positive effects of good sleep on mental health, and the resources available on the MindMate website to help those whose friends may be struggling with their mental health.
The #MindMay8 campaign runs until 8 May on MindMate’s social media platforms; Facebook (MindMateLeeds), Instagram (MindMateLeeds) and Twitter (@MindMateLeeds).
If you’re a young person and need support or help with your mental health, please visit the MindMate website www.mindmate.org.uk.
This post is based on a press release issued by NHS Leeds
Photo: Chloe Capture via Creative Commons
