Posted: 03/05/13
Thinking about emotional and mental wellbeing
Emotional and mental wellbeing is set to focus the minds of students and staff at West Nottinghamshire College.
The college is backing Mental Health Awareness Week (13 to 19 May) by staging a day of activities and information at its Derby Road campus.
Taking place on Wednesday 15 May, it will see specialist teams from the college and various organisations provide information, advice and support to encourage people to look after their mental and emotional health. Bodies represented include the NHS, CVS, Mind, Cruse Bereavement Care, Jigsaw Support Scheme and Shire Counselling
The college’s sports development team will stage a rowing challenge and promote the range of physical activities on offer, while learner advisers will hand out free ‘mood food’ smoothies.
Meanwhile, representatives of the Students’ Union will urge learners to sign the national Time to Change pledge aimed at tackling mental health discrimination.
There will also be a quiz based on the information available on the day, with prizes including a gift voucher for the Four Seasons Shopping Centre donated by Shire Counselling and a ‘feel-good’ hamper provided by the college’s student services team.
Pam Upton, co-ordinator for emotional and mental health at the college, said: “People are leading increasingly busy and stressful lives, which can effect how they feel about themselves and their ability to cope with everyday situations.
“There are lots of positive activities that people can do to boost their mental and emotional wellbeing but, crucially, there’s also a wealth of support available for those that need help.
“We take the health and welfare of students and staff very seriously indeed and look forward to raising awareness of this important issue.”
Mental Health Awareness Week is run by national charity the Mental Health Foundation. This year’s campaign will highlight the positive impact that physical activity and exercise has on mental health and wellbeing.
