Many mental health and well-being organizations took part in this year’s ‘Self-Care Week’, which was held between the 13th- 19th of November. Here’s a quick overview of some events that happened in the North East…
‘Self Care Week‘ is an annual awareness week that aims to encourage self-care across communities, families, and generations. Established in 2011 by the Self Care Forum, it’s a week that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds over a collective interest in personal health and wellbeing.
Last year, during Self Care Week, about 800 organisations worked together to empower and inform audiences of millions across the UK. 2023 was set to see even larger figures…
This year’s theme was ‘Mind and Body’, highlighting the links between our mental and physical health. Organisations discussed topics ranging from nutrition and exercise to positive lifestyle choices and general mental/physical well-being.
In the North East, various organizations and charities embraced ‘Self-Care Week’. On November 13th, ‘A Better U,’ a community-led well-being organization based in South Tyneside, hosted a free drop-in coffee morning at Cleadon Park Library. The event focused on five key aspects of well-being: being more active, connecting with others, taking notice, learning, and giving.
“There were loads of different organisations in attendance offering information on local services.”
-UK Smart Recovery North East (Quote taken from their Facebook page)
‘UK Smart Recovery- North East,’ a local addiction recovery charity, attended the event. They said, “There were loads of different organisations in attendance offering information on local services. We were also treated to some delicious broccoli and Stilton soup as well as a taster session of seated yoga.”
Other attendees included the Facilitator Team of the ‘Your Voice Counts‘ charity, which helps individuals with learning difficulties look after their mental health and well-being. The turnout of charities at the event catered for multiple social groups, providing a little bit of something for everyone.
The NHS based in the North East and Yorkshire also urged the public to ‘invest in their future’ during Self Care Week. Relating to this year’s theme of ‘Mind & Body’, local healthcare professionals have emphasised the importance of maintaining a healthy daily routine in order to look after mental and physical health.
Dr Jonathan Slade, GP and Medical Director from County Durham (Quote taken from NHS England Website)
The collaborative efforts witnessed during ‘Self-Care Week’ in the North East this year have highlighted a collective commitment to mental health, wellbeing and a general sense of community. Individuals have learned more about the links between mental and physical health and have been offered more opportunities to practice well-being.
To access mental health or well-being helplines, follow this link
