Anxiety is the theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (15 – 21 May 2023) from Better Health (NHS) and Bromley residents are being encouraged to make the first move in reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety.
As part of the campaign, residents are being reminded of the support on offer that can help them to get active and get more engaged with their local communities.
Whilst anxiety can help us to focus or take extra care when needed, if it persists and becomes overwhelming, it can have a negative impact on our daily life. However, there are simple ways to help manage symptoms of anxiety.
Physical activity can increase feel-good hormones and help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress. In Bromley, there are many community groups, cycling and walking routes, and green, open spaces to help with being active in the summer sunshine.
Our connection to other people and our community is fundamental to protecting our mental health too. Talking with others about your feelings, or just enjoying the distraction of having company can help to alleviate feelings of anxiety and stress. Bromley has many befriending services for people of all ages. Simply Connect is also a great resource that acts as an online events and community group directory for residents in Bromley to try out.
Dr Nada Lemic, Director of Public Health at Bromley Council said, “Though feelings of stress and anxiety are normal, they can become overwhelming if we aren’t all taking care of our mental health. I hope this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week can prompt everyone to reflect on their own feelings and inspire them to take action such as finding a new hobby or volunteering to get themselves active and engaged with others. You can even start small by enjoying one of Bromley’s picturesque walking routes and build up slowly to joining a local walking group or one of our active Friends Groups.”
If you, or someone you know, needs to find support around their mental health, please visit www.bromley.gov.uk/health to find out what is available to alleviate anxiety and help you to be happier and healthier.
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- For media enquiries, please contact Liam Scoble in Public Affairs, on 020 8313 4688 or email liam.scoble@bromley.gov.uk