Learning how to let go of worries, spend time outside and connect with others to make a difference are just a few positive messages from a new calendar designed to inspire and boost better mental health and wellbeing in Salford.
Launched as part of the 2022-23 annual report by the Director of Public Health and Wellbeing for Salford, Dr Muna Abdel Aziz, the calendar offers information on practical ways to boost health and wellbeing and information on services and resources to help.
Referrals to children’s mental health services and rates of depression in adults were already high even before the pandemic and with the cost of living crisis. The calendar is designed to show people that there is support available.
Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor John Merry, said: “Mental health is a shared priority for everyone in Salford. However, with so much economic uncertainty, it is vital to reflect positivity and optimism going forward.
“The calendar offers a practical and valuable way to experience the many ways you can improve your mental and physical wellbeing in Salford.
“It’s a great resource to support teams, organisations and communities to think about their health and wellbeing, so together we can create a better, fairer, greener, safer, and healthier Salford.”
Dr Abdel Aziz, added: “Stay active and keep learning are just two of the ‘five ways to wellbeing’ promoted in the calendar to help lift your mood, release feel-good endorphins and support your long term mental health.
“People can make pledges such as ‘I will take control of my day-to-day stress and anxiety using the Thrive app’ and other pledges that are linked to campaigns across the city during the year.
“The calendar was inspired by the Mental Health Champions for Salford who represent all the organisations working together in Salford. By using the calendar, we hope residents will find it easier to access services and resources at the right time and in the right place.”
To start making your pledges and plans for the year ahead and to download a copy of the Salford Public Health Report 2022-23, visit the Partners in Salford website.