Mental Health Awareness Week “Movement: Moving more for our Mental Health.”

Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) takes place each year in May. It’s an opportunity for the whole of the UK to come together to focus on the importance of our mental health. The week aims to tackle stigma, get people talking about mental health and promote ways to prioritise our mental health and support others.

This year MHAW takes place from Monday 13th May to Sunday 19th May and the theme is “Movement: Moving more for our Mental Health.”

Research has consistently found that being physically active has a significant, positive impact on our mental health and overall wellbeing. Regular movement has been found to reduce stress, increase energy levels, improve mood, boost self- esteem, and enhance overall brain function.

Many of us struggle to incorporate enough movement into our busy daily lives. This year we want to help you find ‘moments for movement’ in your daily routines. Whether that be; going for a walk on your lunchbreak, dancing to your favourite music, chair exercises or stretching whilst watching the tv – it all counts, small steps can make a big difference.

For more information and resources visit our Healthy Somerset MHAW webpage

During Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond, we are encouraging organisations across the county to prioritise their own and their employees’ wellbeing. People spend a significant portion of their lives working, which is why it’s crucial to address their wellbeing during working hours. Promoting movement during the working day can positively impact employees’ mental health. Below are some reasons why movement matters.

Combats sedentary behaviour:
Many professions have working days which involve prolonged sitting – whether at a desk, computer, or in meetings. Encouraging employees to move more during the working day can break this sedentary pattern.

Benefits of movement:
Regular physical activity has a direct impact on mental health. It helps reduce stress, improve mood, boost energy levels, and enhance overall well-being.

Simple ways to incorporate movement:
Walks: encourage short walks during breaks, lunchtime and arrange walking meetings.
Desk exercises: share simple exercises that can be done at the desk.
Stretching: remind employees to stretch periodically to prevent stiffness.

Positive workplace culture:
When businesses prioritise employee wellbeing, it fosters a positive workplace culture.
Movement initiatives show that the company values its employees’ health.