Mental Health Awareness Week 2024!
Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) will take place from 13—19 May 2024. This year’s theme, as set by the Mental Health Foundation is Movement: Moving more for our mental health.
For this year’s MHAW, we are pleased to announce that we will be hosting a number of different wellbeing activities, groups, courses, and workshops across the county. Please check the timetable below for more information and direct links. More activities to be announced soon!
Monday 13 May
Tea, Talk & Board Games, 1:30pm — 3:30pm at Ernest English House, Plymouth
We invite you to pop along to our drop-in for tea, biscuits, board games, and a chance to have a chat, connect with others, and meet some of our Devon Mind team.
Tuesday 14 May
Understanding and Coping with Feelings of Anxiety Workshop, 10:00am — 12:30pm at Ernest English House, Plymouth
A short workshop exploring tools and tips to help us cope with feelings of anxiety. You can learn more and sign up here.
Wednesday 15 May
Trauma, Shame & Self-Care Course, 10:00am — 4:00pm at Ernest English House, Plymouth
A full-day course exploring self-care and compassion in response to trauma. You can learn more and sign up here.
Walk & Talk, 10:00am — 11:30am at Rock Park, Barnstaple
We invite you to join us in the park for an opportunity to connect with others and enjoy our local nature. We will be meeting at the entrance of the park by the Remembrance Statue and you are welcome to join us at any point. Feel free to bring along a friend or dog!
Thursday 16 May
Trauma, Shame & Self-Care Course, 10:00am — 4:00pm at Barnstaple Gig Pilot, Barnstaple
A full-day course exploring self-care and compassion in response to trauma. You can learn more and sign up here.
Mindful Movement: Walk & Talk, 12 noon at Central Park, Plymouth
Accessible walk and talk session in partnership with Argyle Community Trust. You can find out more here.
Friday 17 May
Men’s Support Group, 1:30pm — 3:00pm at Ernest English House, Plymouth
A safe space to share your mental health stories and connect with others. You can find out more and register here.
RC Running Club, from 6:30pm in Plymouth
Our endorsed inclusive community running club that promotes positive wellbeing. You can find out more here.
Saturday 18 May
Wellbeing Walk & Talk, 10:00am — 2:00pm, Cawsands — Mount Edgecumbe
Join our 3.5-mile weekend walk through Mount Edgecumbe’s stunning parkland in collaboration with the South West Coast Path Association. You can find out more and register here.
Quick tips for being more active:
Short of time?
Try a brisk 10-minute walk twice a day. Small increases in activity are easier to maintain and will give you a regular sense of success.
Do something you enjoy
It could be dancing around the kitchen, a ball game or dog walking — anything. If you find it fun, you are more likely to want to keep doing it.
Explore the outdoors
Outside activities like cycling or gardening can improve your wellbeing and give you a sense of grounding and perspective.
Pace yourself
Build up gradually. Too much exercise can make stress worse or cause injury. If it motivates you, set challenging but achievable goals.
Racing thoughts?
Solo activities like running or swimming can help you get some time to yourself to think things over, away from everyday stresses.
Want to clear your head?
Concentrating on playing a team sport or competitive game such as football or tennis can help turn your focus away from worries.
Think positively
Celebrate any progress you make, however small.
Need help getting started?
Try joining a club or class. Other people can help you get motivated and it’s a great way to meet new people.
We’re here to fight for better mental health across Devon. For support. For respect. For you.
For further information, support, guidance, and tips about physical activity, visit the Mind online resource hub here. Keep an eye on our social media and newsletter for further updates about the activities we have planned for Mental Health Awareness Week!