This is Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) with the theme of kindness. During the coronavirus outbreak people have had to adapt and change their lifestyles and routines following government advice to avoid catching the virus.

It has been a difficult time but, out of it all, people have demonstrated their capacity to help one another. To be there when they are needed.

Mark Rowland, Chief Executive of Mental Health Foundation, the charity behind MHAW, explains: “We have chosen kindness because of its singular ability to unlock our shared humanity. Kindness strengthens relationships, develops community and deepens solidarity. It is a cornerstone of our individual and collective mental health.

“But we also want to shine a light on the ways that kindness is already flowering at this time. We have seen it in the dancing eyes of 100-year-old Captain Tom Moore as he walked his garden to raise money for the NHS and in the mutual aid groups responding to local needs.”

Click here for information on where you can find support locally.

And for national support with mental health click here.

During the week Living Well Sefton, its partners, and Sefton CVS have been using the 5 Ways to Wellbeing to show how you can be kind to yourself and your mental wellbeing.

In the video Diane, a High Intensity User (HIU) worker from Sefton CVS, shares her thoughts on taking notice, which is one of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing. It’s about being aware of what’s around you and savouring the moment.