Mental Health Awareness Week 2017

 Now we have entered May, we are looking at one of the year’s biggest theme weeks – Mental Health Awareness Week.  Thanks to some recent help from the Royals, mental health is one of the most talked about topics in the media today. But how does it relate to us and what we do?

One of the brilliant things about incorporating drama in to schools is that it often gives students a new way of expressing themselves and a way of opening up. We are lucky to have received many testimonials from teachers with success stories of pupils flourishing through new techniques of learning.

‘The workshop allowed children, who were previously dreading the day, to shine and helped build their confidence and self-esteem (…) Thank you Konflux Theatre ’

It is common for everyone to experience low moods or feelings of anxiety through their life (statistically, one in four adults!). In the office, we’ve been thinking of small things we can do in our everyday lives to improve our mental health:

1. Getting outside in the fresh air! Taking the dog for a walk, getting off the bus a stop earlier and walking the remainder of your journey or even just popping headphones in and going for a quick 20 minute wander after work! As well as a change of scenery, light exercise will really help to lift your mood!
    
2. Sometimes our minds can become cluttered with everything we have to do! A nice idea is remembering to take time to do something for you – maybe a hot bubble bath, start a diary or dive in to a good book.
    
3. Remembering to check in with our friends! Airing out any problems or concerns to friends can instantly make us feel better!
    
4. Getting busy with a task can be a great tool to focus (I personally go straight to baking!) Other suggestions were colouring books or even crafts like scrapbooking!
    
5. A very quick and easy tip to brighten your day – think of 3 things every single day that you are grateful for in your life! Even the smallest things can give your day a positive spin.  

The subject of positive mental health is more prominent than ever. Will you be opening up the conversation today?  We have Mental Health and Mindfulness workshops available for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 – introducing the topics and exploring helpful techniques.

For more information, please feel free to give me a call in the office on 01937 220 320. Details of all our workshops are available on our website, www.konfluxtheatre.co.uk.

We can’t wait to hear from you!

Tessa x
(Yorkshire, the North West, Scotland)