Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 is taking place 13 to 19 May, and the theme is Movement. 🤸♂️🚵♀️🚴♂️🤽 Regular physical activity is known to improve mental health, quality of life, and wellbeing. what have you done / can do this week to get moving ? #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes #inandoutofcontrol #mentalhealthawareness
The Anger Iceberg represents the idea that, although anger is displayed outwardly, other emotions may be hidden beneath the surface. By exploring what’s beneath the surface, you can gain insight you’re your anger, such as other possible treatment avenues. For example, someone who realises their anger is fuelled by jealousy may benefit from communication skills, whereas someone who realises their anger is caused by stress will benefit from developing self-care habits Why don’t you try to write your own Anger Iceberg? What could you do to feel better ? #anger #iceberg #selfhelp #stressawareness #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #fridayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset
💧 STRESS BUCKET 💧 This week the Merseyside Blues Team have been exploring the stress bucket activity with young people 💧 The stress bucket shows how everything that is happening in our lives can take a toll on us, and if we don't do anything to improve our mood our bucket will end up overflowing! This is when we might shutdown away from others or feel like we are having a meltdown! 😓 Filling up our bucket could be things like exams, friendship issues, the weather - absolutely anything that may bring down our mood! ⚡ To empty our bucket, we can do things that improve our mood and allow us to destress. These are called our taps! Our taps can be things like spending time with people we enjoy, indulging in a hobby or getting active! 🤸♀️ Have a think this week about things that are filling up your stress bucket, and what you can do to empty it! #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #stressbucket #destress
What will you be getting up to at half term? it’s important to remind ourselves of support that is available over the half-term for extra mental wellbeing information and support. 🧠 Below are a list of services that are available for you over the half term break! 🌟 The Hive – a social space for young people in Birkenhead. 👯♂️ YoungMinds, Mind and Zillo Wirral – online platforms providing information about managing our mental wellbeing. 💻 Samartians (116 123), Shout (text 85258) and Childline (0800 1111) – anonymous and confidential text/phone/online chat services for if you want to speak to someone, as well as online information around managing wellbeing. ☎️ Kooth – online counselling and support, as well as information around managing wellbeing. 🧠 The Mix : Confidential Support & Advice — Counselling service & helpline supporting young people who are struggling or in crisis. Childline : Childline is here to help anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through. Childline is free, confidential and available any time, day or night In crisis, please call 999. Please remember, you are never alone. 💚 Stay safe, and have a fantastic and restful February half-term! 🌟🌈 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds
This years theme is “learning for lasting peace”. An active commitment to peace is more urgent today than ever. Learning for peace must be transformative, and help empower learners with the necessary knowledge, values, attitudes and skills and behaviours to become agents of peace in their communities. Find out more about todays celebrations at : International Day of Education | UNESCO #internationaldayofeducation #education #peace #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes
Resilience is about being able to ‘bounce back’ from life’s challenges. Resilience isn't about figuring it out on your own. In fact, being able to reach out to others for support is a key part of being resilient.👬 Ways to build our resilience might be through activities we enjoy 🏄 What activities do you enjoy that build your resilience ?💪 #resilience #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #bounceback #actionforchildren
Changing doing is a large focus within our sessions! 🔍 Adding in activities into our routine can make us feel better, as they increase our oxytocin and serotonin levels – which can make us feel happier and more energised. 😁 Exercise increases your overall health and your sense of well-being, which puts more pep in your step every day. 😊 You don’t have to run a whole marathon, just doing something to get moving will help lift your mood #exercise #changing #walking #youtube #nintendoswitch #ringfit #justdance #gym #nature #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
Most of us will experience loneliness at some point in our lives. Loneliness doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you – it’s your body’s way of letting you know that you’re not getting your social needs met. Things you can do to practice self care to look after yourself: Create a ‘to-you’ list : celebrating all the good things about yourself. Taking a hot bath or shower Get cosy Start a new hobby Talk to someone who you trust Reach out to friends For professional support Childline has a Day in the Lonely campaign which uses day-in-the-life videos to show how three young people experience loneliness. The videos highlight the ways in which Childline can help young people Through Day in the Lonely, they are encouraging young people, with the support of their parents, to speak about their mental health issues early on #lonely #loneliness #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes #inandoutofcontrol
Acts of kindness can make the world a happier place for everyone.❤️ They can boost feelings of confidence, being in control, happiness and optimism. They may also encourage others to repeat the good deeds they've experienced themselves – contributing to a more positive community. Research has shown that kindness improves our physical and mental health – whether we’re giving kindness, receiving kindness or even just witnessing kindness😊. Find out more at : Science-of-Kindness-Download.pdf (schoolofkindness.org) What are you doing this week to be kind ? #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes
🎉 Celebrating #UKDisabilityHistoryMonth! ✨ Join us as we commemorate the incredible achievements and contributions of disabled individuals throughout British history. Together, let's raise awareness and promote inclusivity for a more inclusive and accessible future! 💙🌟 This Month has been UK Disability History Month which has run from: November 16th 2023 to December 16th 2023 The theme for UK Disability History Month 2023 is Disability, Childhood and Youth. It is important at Action for Children that we maintain inclusive practices to allow all children to get the most out of our services. If you wish to take part in a collaboration to get the creative views of young disabled people to express the good, the bad and the changes they would like as young disabled people, find out more at : UK Disability History Month – 16 November – 16 December (ukdhm.org) #DisabilityAwareness #InclusionMatters #DiversityInHistory #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes
🏅 GOLDEN NUGGETS 🏅 Over the past term, we have had hundreds of amazing golden nuggets from young people who have worked with us on The Blues Programme! 🫱🏻🫲🏽 The @afcmerseysideblues team ask young people to summarise their thoughts of the programme in one short statement, and above are some fantastic quotes! 📢 Thank you to all of the amazing young people who joined us last term – the team really enjoyed meeting you all and having some fantastic conversations about mental health and wellbeing! We are so glad you were all able to take something away from the sessions! 😁 #goldennuggets #reflection #quote #thankyou #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
It’s normal to feel sad and angry when we are triggered by negative events. If you dwell on these feelings and don’t try to challenge your thoughts, it can just lead to more hurt and upset. If you can try to focus on what is in and out of your control in a situation you can decide how best to handle it : Imagine bad weather⚡ we cant control this but we can control wearing a coat🧣 and bringing an umbrella. ☂ What are some triggers you can refocus ? #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes #inandoutofcontrol
🌟 WEEKEND REMINDERS 🌟 Here are some reminders to take you into this weekend! 😴 It’s important to use the weekend to take the time to rest and recover. 📖 Make sure you get at least seven hours of sleep and give yourself time to do a relaxing activity such as watching a movie or reading a book! 🏅Reward yourself for finishing the week – whether that be a sweet treat, spending time with a friend or going to a place you enjoy! 🚶♀️Getting our bodies moving is super important, even when we are in a period of resting. This could be going for a walk, placing a sport, or even having a dance around to our favourite music! 🎮 Finally, plan a fun activity for the next week. Having something to look forward to is a really powerful way to motivate us through difficult times. What are you doing to unwind this weekend? 📢 #weekendreminders #changingdoing #lookingforward #motivation #reward #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
It can be really helpful to take a break from social media as we so often get caught up scrolling and then don’t have time to do what we should be doing or it can make us run late ⏰ Your social media break doesn't have to be all or nothing. You may find just scaling back or stopping periodically helps 😊 Taking social media breaks allows your brain 🧠 and body to get the essential recharge it’s needs to keep going! We have put together some tips & ideas 💡 to help you take a break from social media: 🍂 take a walk around the block 🎶 play some music 🧑🍳 cook a meal or bake a cake 🥅 Set a goal 💃 Spend some time with friends 🏊🏻♀️ do a physical activity 👨👩👧👧Connect with family What can you do this week to take a break from social media? #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes
🌎 WORLD CHILDRENS DAY 🌎 Today is UNICEF World Children’s Day! 🌎 We are celebrating and raising awareness around the rights of children all around the world. It is important at Action for Children that we uphold the rights of children and allow them to become a part of the decision-making process in decisions that affect them. 🫱🏻🫲🏽 Our Young Ambassadors board are a group of young people who have direct influence on decisions made, as well as championing for mental-health services and support for young people. 👬 Currently completing the Blues programme or completed the Blues programme before? Talk to Abbey or Issy about becoming a Young Ambassador! 🌟 #WCD2023 #UNICEF #childrensrights #actionforchildren #youngambassadors #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #youngpeople #help #support #wellbeing #wellness #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #mentalhealthmatters
World Kindness Day is an annual event that encourages individuals to practice kindness in their daily lives.❤️ This day falls on a Monday, so you have all week for opportunities to show those around you kindness. Here are ways to get involved: • Perform Acts of Kindness: Throughout the day, consciously perform acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbour, complimenting a colleague, or donating to a charity. • Spread Positivity: Share uplifting and positive messages on social media to inspire others to be kind and compassionate. • Volunteer: Offer your time to volunteer for a local charity or non-profit organization that aligns with your values. • Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise someone with a random act of kindness, such as buying a stranger’s coffee or leaving an encouraging note for a friend. #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #kind #kindness #kindnessmatters
These are the feel good/happy chemicals that we have in our brains🧠, and they are released when we do things that we enjoy. Here are ways you could release your happy chemicals: Dopamine 🎨– Exercise, creating something – music, art. Oxytocin – Love hormone❤️ – want to socialise & spend time with people/pets. Serotonin 🏅– increases confidence/self-esteem. Endorphins😂 – Exercise, laugh. what will you do to get your daily dose ? #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #hormones #dailydose
🌟 MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY 🌟 Often when we are experiencing negative or unknown events, such as failing a test or starting a new job, we can be over critical of ourselves and fail to give ourselves the recognition we deserve! 😔 We may make comments about ourselves that are harsh, and even though it might be hard, it is important to try and reframe our mindsets with the aim to think more positively about the situation! 🫂 For example, if we made a mistake when learning something new, we might think negatively about ourselves and our abilities. Instead, it can be more helpful to look at what we can learn from the experience! 👩🏻🎓 It isn’t easy, but it’s another way we can try and reframe our mindset! 🫱🏻🫲🏽 What reframing statements are you going to use this week? #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #reframeyourmind #positivestatements #manifesting
Yesterday was Stress awareness day Stress is the brain and body’s response to change, challenge, or demand. It is the body’s natural defence against danger brought on by an event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Strategies like ignoring or denying stress or distracting ourselves, which may be effective short-term, can also undermine our health and happiness in the long run. Here are some tips: Reach out to someone whenever we feel stressed, or have a lot on our minds! 🗣 Spend some time to relax. Pop your phone down and do something for yourself, whether that be reading a book 📚, having a bath 🛁 or spending time with family or friends. 🧑🏻🤝🧑🏻 Being kind to ourselves – daily affirmations can help set us up for the day ahead 💬 What are you doing today to relax and destress today? ⁉️ #stressawareness #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset
as October comes to an end, we look back on how Black History Month is a great time to celebrate 🎉 black key figures 🧑🏿🎓and events, to tackle racism 🚫 and uphold representation and support 🧑🏾🤝🧑🏿. This year’s Black History Month theme: ‘Saluting Sisters’- honouring the achievements of Black women Some significant inventions by black women : Alice Parker : Heating System, allowing people to heat their entire homes instead of just one area. Shirley Jackson : fibre-optic cables, She developed things like touch-tone dialling and call-waiting. As well as fibre-optic cables, allowing for long distant calls. MARIE VAN BRITTAN BROWN : Home Security System. She developed the security system consisting of a sliding camera, television monitors, two-way microphones, and four peepholes. Brown’s invention marked the first time closed-circuit television, or CCTV, was used in a security system. Ethnic background can play a part in mental health issues and services ✋🏾 Black Minds Matter UK is a fully registered charity operating in the UK; connecting Black individuals and families with free mental health services- by professional Black therapists to support their mental health. Taking long term action can continue by becoming an ally, educating yourself through speaking to others 🗣 and attending events 🗓️ to learn more! Find out more about this month: • Black History Month in Britain: Great women you should know about - BBC Newsround • Black women in Britain — Google Arts & Culture • Black History Month to celebrate women and UK’s Windrush generation | Black History Month | The Guardian @actionforchildrenuk #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory #mentalhealth #liverpool #merseyside #positive #positivepost #youngpeople #support #mentalhealthsupport #youngpeoplementalhealth #awareness #creatingchange #bethechange #charity #wellbeing #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #mentalhealthawareness #BHM #racism
🍂 AUTUMN SIGNPOSTING 🍂 As the schools break up and clubs finish for October half-term, we often find ourselves away from the people and places that make us feel happy. 🤔 That’s why it’s important to remind ourselves of support 🫱🏾🫲🏿 that is available over the half-term for extra mental wellbeing information and support. 🧠 Below are a list of services that are available for you over the half term break! 🌟 The Hive – a social space for young people in Birkenhead. 👯♂️ YoungMinds, Mind and Zillo Wirral – online platforms providing information about managing our mental wellbeing. 💻 Samartians (116 123), Shout (text 85258) and Childline (0800 1111) – anonymous and confidential text/phone/online chat services for if you want to speak to someone, as well as online information around managing wellbeing. ☎️ Kooth – online counselling and support, as well as information around managing wellbeing. 🧠 In crisis, please call 999. Please remember, you are never alone. 💚 Stay safe, and have a fantastic and restful October half-term! 🌟🌈 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #signposting
If you’re feeling like you don't want to do anything or are unmotivated, the prospect of doing things to try and motivate yourself may seem impossible. You may be wondering how you’ll find the motivation to motivate yourself! However, there are a number of really simple things you can do that can help to boost your mood and motivation levels, helping you to feel better and more in control.💪 #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🚲 CYCLE TO SCHOOL WEEK 🚲 This week is 'Cycle to School Week' where students are encouraged to try to cycle to school one day this week! 🚲 Take this week to think about how you travel to school – could you try and cycle instead of driving? Or if your school is too far away – could you try an alternative method of transport such as taking the bus or train, or even car sharing with friends? 👨👨👧👧 If you enjoy cycling but cannot cycle to school, try discovering somewhere new and plan an cycling adventure this week! You might be wondering if cycling to school does make an impact? It totally does!! 🤔 If just one student cycled to school instead of travelling in the car for a year, it would save almost half a tonne in carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to growing eight trees for a decade or charging 58,388 mobile phones! 🌳 Try and think about the ways that you could change your travel this week! 🌍 #cycletoschoolweek #cycling #environmentalgood #inclusion #mindfulness #sustainability #friendship #health #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease
🫂 WELLBEING WEDNESDAY 🫂 Daily Affirmations 🤝 Daily affirmations 🤝 are little quotes or statements 💬 you say to yourself or write down, which is a great way to boost 🚀 your mental wellbeing 🧠 and positivity.👍 They can be anything you want; we’ve listed some examples for you! 🖊 Try writing daily affirmations on sticky notes 📝, and dot them around your room 🏡, or you can set reminders on your phone. 📳 Set a time each week to review your affirmations.⏳️Perhaps you want more focus on staying positive ✅️ in school, or maybe focus on having more self confidence. 🙋♀️ What’s your daily affirmation for today? ⁉️ #dailyaffirmation #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset
Feeling stressed at the end of a long week? The 54321 technique involves looking around you and finding five things you can see👀, four things you can touch✋, three things you can hear👂, two things you can smell👃, and one thing you can taste👅. By focusing on these things, you can shift your attention away from stress and anxiety and into the present moment. Take time this weekend for yourself to relax #kindness #selfworth #funactivities #reward #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
It’s National Read a Book day 📚 What will you read ? 📖 National book day celebrates the exciting adventures that we can be transported to by simply reading a book 📕 books bring words to life and can challenge our perspectives and give us new ideas 👍🏻 How about you try a new book ? Borrow a book from your local library ? perhaps you can share a book with a friend ❤️ #nationalreadabookday #book #read #nationalreadabookday #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🏫 MOTIVATION MONDAY 🏫 Back to School season is upon us! As we build back up our routines, it is important to remember all the things that can help us feel calm and happy. 😁 Of course it's important to make sure we have pens 🖊 and uniform 👔, but it's also important to prepare ourselves mentally for school! 🧠 Ensuring we get plenty of sleep 💤, planning ahead 🎯 and having fun activities 🏃to look forward to are all things we can do to calm our mind and set ourselves up for success this year! 🌟 What are you doing to prepare for getting back to school? #backtoschool #prep #planningahead #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthresource #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngminds #happy #instagood #positivemindset
This week is Love Parks week - all about getting out in nature This week is dedicated to celebrating parks, green spaces and perhaps most importantly those who look after them all year round 👏🏻 🌳 How about you visit a green space or park this week and show your appreciation Spending time in a park is a great way to get fresh air and improve your mental wellbeing Let’s show love to our parks ❤️ 🌳 #loveparks #loveparkweek #outreach #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthresource #mentalhealthsupport #mindfulness #buildsoundminds #wellbeing #selfcare #instagood #resilience
🎈 FUN FRIDAY 🎈 Happy Friday guys! We hope everyone is enjoying their time off so far! We have some fab events from @zillowirral to share with you! Zillo is a website for young people made by young people and is full of info, support and resources for young people, as well as a schedule full of really fun events happening near you this summer!! Here is some events we know will be amazing and good to keep yourself busy! Get out the house and join in with the fun this summer with your family and friends! For more events, safe spaces and youth hubs please see www.Zillowirral.co.uk and also if you need any support over the holidays!! Wishing you the best summer ever and can’t wait to see you all in September! @actionforchildrenuk #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthresource #fun #selfhelp #summerholidays #zillowirral #events #happy #buildsoundminds #mindfulness #youngpeople #fridayfeeling #goodvibes #positivity #actionforchildren #unwind #wellbeing
☀️ WONDERFUL WEDNESDAY ☀️ The other week, the Blues team spent the day with the wonderful Year 10 students at @archbeckofficial ! 🫱🏻🫲🏼 We spent the day delivering a bespoke mental health and emotional wellbeing workshop 🚧 We discussed all things mental wellbeing, such as the anger iceberg 🧊, as well as developing a toolkit of useful things we can do to improve our mood! 🛠 We finished off the session by looking at what fun activities we can do to get our daily DOSE of chemicals that improve our mood! 🧠 As well as the importance of having a circle of support around us! 🫂 Thank you so much for having us @archbeckofficial 🌟 #outreach #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthresource #mentalhealthsupport #mindfulness #buildsoundminds #wellbeing #selfcare #instagood #resilience
🌟 MOTIVATION MONDAY 🌟 It's the summer holidays! ☀️ Even though the weather is quite rainy at the moment, there are still plenty of fun activities we can do! 😄 Why don't you take this time to write down a bucket list of all the fun activities you plan to do over the holidays! 📝 Doing fun activities can boost important brain chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin, which have been proven to improve our mood! 😊 Make sure they are activities that are accessible to you and don't cost too much money! 🔐 The Blues team are going to make sure they spend lots of time with their friends and family, but also to take some time for themselves! What items are on your bucket list? #bucketlist #funactivities #rainydays #summerholidays #wellbeing #mentalhealthresource #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthsupport #youngminds #mindfulness #buildsoundminds #wellness #selfcare #instagood #relax
📅 PLANNING AHEAD 📅 As summer is coming up, this is the perfect time to think about planning fun activities! ☀️ During the Blues programme we talk about the importance of planning ahead for future activities! Changing our doing doesn’t just have to be things we are doing in the moment, it also can extend to planning things for the future! 📆 Planning future events gives us something to look forward to, which can be especially useful when a major event or stressor is coming up – such as exams or a big change. It can also make us more accountable to do fun activities! 📈 These events can be weekly activities, such as seeing friends or going to the park, or monthly activities such as going shopping or getting a takeaway! 🍴 On top of that, we can also plan for big fun activities that might happen once or twice a year, such as a concert or a holiday! 🌞 When planning for a future fun activity, it is important to follow the steps shown in the post! Keep in mind your time, location and budget restraints to ensure you can have a great time whilst still being realistic! 📌 What big fun activity are you going to plan to do? #planningahead #funactivity #changingdoing #lookingforward #motivation #reward #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🌟 GOLDEN NUGGETS 🌟 Over the past term, we have had hundreds of amazing golden nuggets from young people who have worked with us on The Blues Programme! 🫱🏻🫲🏼 The @afcmerseyside team ask young people to summarise their thoughts of the programme in one short statement, and above are some fantastic quotes! 💬 Thank you to all of the amazing young people who joined us last term – the team really enjoyed meeting you all and having some fantastic conversations about mental health and wellbeing! 😊We are so glad you were all able to take something away from the sessions! 👍 @prentonhighschoolforgirls @stanselmscollege @woodchurchhighschool #goldennuggets #reflection #quote #thankyou #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
☀️ MOTIVATION MONDAY ☀️ We all know the last few weeks of the school year can be tough! It is important to be kind to yourself as you finish off the year. 🌟 Make sure to take time for yourself – enjoy fun activities 🏀, spend time with friends 👬 and reward yourself! 🫶 #kindness #selfworth #funactivities #reward #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
Pancakes are for every day of the year – not just pancake day! 🥞 Pancakes are a fantastic sweet treat, which is easy to make and can perfectly fit into a healthy, balanced diet! As a part of Health Eating Week -we’re sharing with you an easy to use recipe with ingredients you may already have in your house! 🥄 Have a think about what you might top your pancakes with! Do you like something sour - with some lemon and sugar? 🍋 Or do you prefer something sweet with yoghurt and berries? 🍓 Perhaps a drizzle of honey? Have a think about maybe giving pancakes a go this week! 🥞 #pancakes #healthyeatingweek #balanceddiet #yummy #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🍽 HEALTHY EATING WEEK 🍽 This week is healthy eating week! A healthy diet has a big impact on our mental health and wellbeing! 🧠 When we provide our bodies with lots of nutrients, our brains can function better and it can impact how we feel. 🤯 Have you ever had a cup of coffee or an energy drink and felt irritable or worried?😰 Caffeine found in these drinks can impact our mood, so it is important to regulate our caffeine intake when we notice an impact on our mood! 🔍 Fueling our bodies can be difficult when we are busy – so it is helpful to make some healthy swaps to easily sneak in some extra yummy nutrients into our diet! 🍉 For example, making sure you have a protein source with every meal 🍗, or adding in a piece of fruit or vegetables alongside our favourite snack, keeping us fuller for longer! 🍓 Have a think this week if you would like to make any changes to how you fuel your body?❓️ #healthyeatingweek #mindfulswaps #brainfood #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
💨 GROUNDING TECHNIQUES 🧐 Grounding techniques are a fantastic way to bring yourself down in a moment when you may be feeling stressed or anxious. 🤯 The 54321 technique guides your brain to think about what is happening in the moment, giving you time to regulate your breathing and heartrate, and get ready to tackle whatever happens next. ✅️ When using this technique, take some time to think about 5 things you can see 👀, 4 things you can touch 🖐, 3 things you can hear 👂, 2 things you can smell 👃and 1 thing you can taste 👅. Give this a go and see how you feel! 💭 #mindfulness #groundingtechnique #54321 #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🏳️🌈 PRIDE MONTH IS HAPPENING NOW!! 🏳️🌈 This is an opportunity to recognise, reflect and celebrate the LGBTQ+ communities! 🏳️🌈 It helps us focus on the challenges facing these communities and call for positive change! 🗣 To celebrate pride, Action for Children Merseyside would love you to get involved and share with us how you are celebrating pride - in light of the theme of ‘The Spirit of Pride’! 🥳 We encourage you to create a creative piece in any style you would like – art, poetry, music, dance, photography, baking etc! 📷👯♀️🎂 Please send your submissions to our Instagram DMs or email us at [email protected] with the title PRIDE MONTH COMPETITION ENTRY – the deadline for this is the 23rd of June! You can also hand your entry to one of the Action for Children staff in your school! 👍 We look forward to seeing all of your amazing entries! 🫶 #pridemonth #lgbtq #competition #thespiritofpride #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🌸 SPRING SIGNPOSTING 🌸 As the schools break up for May half-term ☀️ , we often find ourselves away from the people and places that make us feel happy. 😔 That’s why it’s important to remind ourselves of support 🫂 that are available over the half-term for extra mental wellbeing information and support. 💻 Below are a list of services that are available for you over the half term break! 🏪YPAS – provide information, advice and guidance online, drop-in sessions and open access groups. 🧠 YoungMinds, Mind and Zillo Wirral – online platforms providing information about managing our mental wellbeing. ☎️ Samartians (116 123), Shout (text 85258) and Childline (0800 1111) – anonymous and confidential text/phone/online chat services for if you want to speak to someone, as well as online information around managing wellbeing. 💻 Kooth – online counselling and support, as well as information around managing wellbeing. ‼️ In crisis, please call 999. Remember, you are never alone. ‼️ Stay safe, and have a fantastic half-term break! ❤️ #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #signposting #youngminds #shout #childline #kooth #samaritans #shout #childline #mind #zillowirral #ypasliverpool
📅 PLANNING AHEAD 📅 During the Blues programme we talk about the importance of planning ahead for future activities! Changing our doing doesn’t just have to be things we are doing in the moment, it also can extend to planning things for the future! 📆 Planning future events gives us something to look forward to, which can be especially useful when a major event or stressor is coming up – such as exams or a big change. It can also make us more accountable to do fun activities! 📈 These events can be weekly activities, such as seeing friends or going to the park, or monthly activities such as going shopping or getting a takeaway! 🍴 On top of that, we can also plan for big fun activities that might happen once or twice a year, such as a concert or a holiday! 🌞 When planning for a future fun activity, it is important to follow the steps shown in the post! Keep in mind your time, location and budget restraints to ensure you can have a great time whilst still being realistic! 📌 What big fun activity are you going to plan to do? #planningahead #funactivity #changingdoing #lookingforward #motivation #reward #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🟢 Mental Health Awareness Week 🟢 This week, Blues practitioners Rhiann and Abbey as well as a helping hand from one of our Blues students Tom, spread awareness of Mental Health Awareness Week by hosting signposting and prize stalls at @prentonhighschoolforgirls and @stanselmscollege ℹ️🏆 The theme this year is around anxiety - and how this is a common feeling that we all experience, however sometimes it can be hard to control 🧠 In our programmes we discuss anxious feelings and what we can do to help calm and control them! ❤️🩹 Our top tips are; - Think about what is in and out of your control - Is the thing you are worrying about something you can control? If so, what can you do to change the situation that is making you feel anxious. Is the situation out of your control? If so, how could you reframe the situation and change your thinking 💭 - Reward yourself - Sometimes we will have to deal with situations which make us anxious such as big changes or events! It is important to reward yourself when you have made it through that event - such as having something to look forward to after exams! 🎁 - Breathing techniques - When we are feeling anxious this can sometimes lead us to become panicked! It's important to try and calm ourselves down, and a great way to do this is by breathing techniques such as square breathing or finding a guided breathing video 🧘🏽 #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek #ToHelpMyAnxiety #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters @mentalhealthfoundation @actionforchildrenuk
🚶 LETS GET WALKING 🚶♀️ This week is 'Walk to School Week' where students are encouraged to try to walk to school each day! 👣 Take this week to think about how you travel to school – could you try and walk to school instead of driving? Or if your school is too far away – could you try an alternative method of transport such as riding a bike, taking the bus or train, or even car sharing with friends? 👨👨👧👧 This year, the focus is on five main reason why walking to school is beneficial for us! 🔍 Inclusion – more people have access to walking compared to cars or buses, and it can be a fantastic opportunity to spend time with others! 🙋♀️ Health – walking to school allows you to get some physical exercise at the start of the day, getting your blood flowing around your body and to the brain – so you are ready for the day of learning! 🧠 Mindfulness – walking home gives you chance to destress and reflect on your day! Walking in nature is a fantastic way to be mindful! 🌲 Sustainability – reducing our use of vehicles can have a positive impact on the environment and reduce pollution! 🍃 Friendship – walking with others gives you the perfect opportunity to connect with friends, or perhaps you may make new friends who walk the same way as you! 👭 Try and think about the ways that you could change your travel to school this week! 🌍 #walktoschoolweek #walking #inclusion #mindfulness #sustainability #friendship #health #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
📚 EXAM SEASON 📚 Exam season is upon us! Whether you have GCSEs, A Levels or mocks, it is important to remember the things we can do for ourselves so that we don’t burnout! 🤕 Burnout happens when we work too hard or don’t give ourselves the breaks we needs – which can lead to us feeling demotivated, upset, worried or stressed. 😟 Therefore, it is important that when you are studying you have plenty of breaks and time away from studying. Plan some fun activities to break up the weekend or go for a walk in between tasks during the half-term! 🌲 Also, think about the type of studying you are doing and if it works for you! If doing revision cards is not helping you retain the information, could you try past papers instead? Reflecting regularly on how you are feeling can stop you falling into negative patterns of thinking! 📬 Finally, please make sure to reward yourself! It is important to have things to look forward to, especially since you are working so hard to revise! 📝 What are you going to do this week to avoid burnout? #burnout #funactivity #reflection #rewards #studying #revision #motivation #change #positivechange #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
👏 HABIT STACKING 👏 Setting goals and developing new habits is a great way to boost motivation and make positive changes in our lives. However, it can be really hard to get going and we often drop habits after a few days! 📆 Habit stacking is a great way to gently introduce new behaviours into our lives and give ourselves a better chance to stick to these habits! 💁 You do this by combining an existing habit that you happily complete daily, with a new habit. The tools you need to complete the new habit should be around the existing habit. For example, if you’re bad at taking your vitamins, place them next to somewhere you know you will be – like next to your toothbrush! 📖 Over time, your brain will start to associate the two habits, and it will become even easier to reach your goals and boost your mood! 😊 What habit are you going to stack this week? #habitstacking #goalsetting #motivation #change #positivechange #habits #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
💧 STRESS BUCKET 💧 This week the Merseyside Blues Team have been exploring the stress bucket activity with young people 💧 The stress bucket shows how everything that is happening in our lives can take a toll on us, and if we don't do anything to improve our mood our bucket will end up overflowing! This is when we might shutdown away from others or feel like we are having a meltdown! 😓 Filling up our bucket could be things like exams, friendship issues, the weather - absolutely anything that may bring down our mood! ⚡ To empty our bucket, we can do things that improve our mood and allow us to destress. These are called our taps! Our taps can be things like spending time with people we enjoy, indulging in a hobby or getting active! 🤸♀️ Have a think this week about things that are filling up your stress bucket, and what you can do to empty it! #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #stressbucket #destress
🌐 ONLINE BOUNDARIES 🌐 The internet and social media is fantastic, but sometimes it can impact our emotional wellbeing, social lives or even our safety.‼️ Sometimes we can get caught up in the endless scrolling or the desire to be on trend that we lose sight of what is important to us. 🫂 This post highlights some useful reminders about online safety and wellbeing that sometimes we all might forget. 🧠 Perhaps check in with your friends, how are they feeling at the moment? Are they feeling any online pressures? Could you both set some online boundaries? 💪 #onlineboundaries #socialmedia #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
😴 WORLD SLEEP DAY 😴 Today is World Sleep Day, a day to bring awareness to the importance of sleep and how this impacts our everyday life! 🛌 This year, the theme is ‘Sleep is Essential for Health as sleep has a major impact on our physical, social and mental wellbeing. 😄 There are many different elements for good quality sleep: Duration – having a long enough sleep that you feel rested and alert when you wake up, this can be anywhere between 6-9 hours depending on the person. Ensure you get to bed early enough to have enough sleep! ⏰ Continuity – having a sleep that isn’t broken without interruptions such as alarms or outside noise. If you know you may be woken up by outside noise, invest in some earplugs. If you struggle to wake up to alarms, try a sleep app which wakes you up gradually! 😴 Depth – sleep should be deep enough to allow your body to restore and recover itself from the day! Try to minimise distractions such as light, you can do this by popping on a eye mask or covering your eyes with a shirt or cloth! 💤 A good bedtime routine is super important! Try and turn brightness down on your phone before bed, and try and stop using screens an hour before you plan to sleep. Try to sleep and wake at the same time every day, this will help build your body clock and your routine. 🌒 Take some time today to think about your sleep health, and what you could do to improve it! ❗ #WorldSleepDay #sleephealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
📚WORLD BOOK DAY📚 World Book Day was held on the 2nd of March, and to celebrate the team want to share some of their favourite books! 📚 Reading is a great way to unwind and relax after a stressful day and is a great form of self-care. 😊 Sue enjoys reading ‘How to be more Paddington’, a book of kindness! 🫶 Robyn enjoys reading poems to relax and unwind before bed - “My favourites are by Becky Hemsley!” 📝 Rhiann is currently reading whilst on holiday! 🌴 Rebecka and Kim enjoy reading books to their children! Kim says “My personal favourites are anything by Julia Donaldson.” 👩👦 Hannah enjoys reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower – “This was one of my favourite books to read when I was in school, I based my A Level English assignment on it!” 💁♀️ Abbey enjoys reading manga – she is currently reading My Hero Academia! 💢 What are you reading this week? @worldbookdaysocial 📚‼️ #worldbookday #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
🗣HAVE YOUR SAY 🗣 Do you want to have an input on mental health and emotional wellbeing support for young people? ‼️ Scan the QR code above to share your thoughts on an upcoming new support platform for young people, in collaboration with the council and the NHS. 📃 This service will include the ability to get tailored support for your needs, access local services that can provide support, complete referral forms to access chosen services and more! 🫂 This platform can be a handy tool to have, where all the information and services you need are in one place! So if this is something you would like to have a say in, complete the questionnaire above by scanning the QR code. 📳 The link will be in our bio for those that can't scan the QR code! Thank you! #questionnaire #services #access #emotionalwellbeing #support #haveyoursay #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
😄 FINALLY FRIDAY 😄 It’s half term! A lot of us have probably looked forward to this for a few weeks, however it is important that we don’t just drop everything now we have time away from school. 👍 During the Blues programme, we speak about the importance of doing fun activities and taking time for ourselves. These are both things we should be doing during half term too! ⚽️ There are many free activities and events around the Wirral during the half-term! Please check out @zillowirral for more information about the various opportunities available to young people this half-term! 👫 As well as getting involved, it’s also important to take care of ourselves during half-term. Make some time for yourself and perhaps try something new! If you have revision or homework, try and catch up towards the start of the break so you can relax before you return to school! 📃 If you aren’t feeling your best and need some additional support, there are many online resources you can access and places you can go to speak to people about how you are feeling. 🗣 Have a great half term from everyone at @afcmerseyside ! 😊 #halfterm #youthspace #youthclub #activities #selfcare #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
😊FANTASTIC FRIDAY😊 As Children’s Mental Health week draws to a close, the @afcmerseyside Blues team wanted to share how our programme can help young people connect! 👬 Being social is a large aspect of the Blues Programme! With this years theme being ‘Let’s Connect’, we thought it would be good to reflect on how young people we have worked with thought the Blues programme helped them connect. 💬 Inside the group, young people have shared that they have made friends during the group, and have enjoyed how the group allowed them to connect with their friends in a new way! 🤝 Outside the group, young people have been encouraged to add social activities into their routine, as well as connect with friends and family they may have fallen out of touch with. 📞 Above are some quotes from discussions around benefits of the group as well as golden nuggets! How are you connecting over this weekend? 😊 #childrensmentalhealthweek #letsconnect #social #goldennugget #signposting #positivity #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
Children’s Mental Health Week - Let’s Connect! Today we would like to shine the spotlight on how young people can connect, whether it be spending time with a relative, eating with family at meal time or sending someone a meme lets try this week to reach out and connect 🤗 💡 Did you know that Social connection can reduce anxiety and depression, help us to regulate our emotions and lead to higher self esteem, as well as improve our immune system 💡 🧩 Let’s Connect: 📩 send someone a message 👋 visit someone 🧁 bake a cake for friends 📚 study with peers 🍽 eat with friends or family We hope you can all make some time to get connecting this week 🤗 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #blues #wellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #positivevibes #selfcare #positivity #anxiety #help #happy #healthy #support #motivationalquotes #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #quoteoftheday @actionforchildrenuk #quotes #quotestagram #childwellbeing #childrensmentalhealthweek2023
👏THANKFUL FRIDAY👏 As part of @actionforchildrenuk graditude week, we wanted to take a moment to think about how we can also spread some gratitude towards ourselves. 😊 Gratitude is a great way to reflect on things in your life that bring you happiness, especially in times when you might be feeling low. This is a way to not only bring positivity into your life, but also show you areas you may want to change! 💪 For example, if I can’t think of an activity I can be grateful for – I now know I need to take the time to find an activity I enjoy! 🏌️♀️ You can show gratitude for the smallest of things – when your hair goes the right way in a morning or when you cook those eggs just how you like them! 💁 It might sound silly, but our brains are wired to think of the negatives whenever possible! Actively thinking of positive things that we are grateful for can make us feel happier and increase our endorphins! 🥰 What are you grateful for today? #gratitude #grateful #thankyou #friends #music #positivechange #enjoy #changingmindset #positivity #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
⭐FANTASTIC FRIDAY⭐ Changing doing is a large focus within our sessions! 🔍 Adding in activities into our routine can make us feel better, as they increase our oxytocin and serotonin levels – which can make us feel happier and more energised. 😁 Exercise is a fantastic way to add in activity into our routine. 🤷 Sometimes it can be hard to get active, especially if you have a busy day of school or socialising, but there are many little things we can do to get active when our schedules are big! 📑 Walking – this could be a walk around the block or a woodland stroll! 🌲Walking is a easy way to get in some exercise into our routine. Why not arrange to meet up with your friends and walk around a local nature trail or park? 🚶Or perhaps try walking home from school instead of getting public transport if this works for you, or get off a few stops early and walk the remaining distance! 🏡 At home – this doesn’t have to be boring! On YouTube, there are plenty of workout videos for all abilities, you can even search up by the music you like. 🎵 If you have a Nintendo Switch – games such as Just Dance or Ring Fit are fantastic if you want a gaming aspect to your workout. 🎮 At the gym – working out at the gym can be a great way to get some exercise in! Check your local area for student/young person rates. If you struggle to know what to do – join an exercise class or find an exercise list online! 🏋 What is your exercise activity for this week? ❓ #exercise #changing doing #walking #youtube #nintendoswitch #ringfit #justdance #gym #nature #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
‼️ OPPORTUNITY! ‼️ Are you passionate about making a difference to children and young people? 🤔 @actionforchildrenuk are recruiting for their Young Ambassadors Board! The YA board allows young people to have a platform to share their ideas and make change happen! 🙌 You can share your views on things that matter to you, build your skills and have the opportunity to get involved in fun projects, events and campaigns! 💭 The YA board will meet monthly online, but there will be plenty of in person opportunities too! 👩💻 If this sounds like something you are interested in, head to the link in our bio or email [email protected] ! PLEASE APPLY BY MONDAY 13TH FEBRURARY 2023! You need to have a parent/carer to consent if you are under the age of 18. 👥 Good luck! 🤞 #youngambassador #change #actionforchildren #youngvoicesmatter #buildsoundminds #mentalhealth #collaboration #youngcarers #youngpeople #childrenincare #makechange #makethedifference #bethechange #brightfutures
💙🔷 Overcoming Blue Monday 🔵🟦 Post-christmas break ☹️, cold dark nights 🌙 and busy days in school and work 📚 can leave us feeling ‘blue’ in January. To feel ‘Blue’ means to experience emotions of sadness or gloominess ☹️😥 However, there are lots of different activities that you can do to get through the January Blues 💪🏼 We’ve given you some ideas above ⬆️, but what can you do this month to stop yourself from feeling Blue? 💙 #bluemonday #blue #monday #januaryblues #january #sadness #gloomy #bluemonday💙 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #blues #wellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #positivevibes #selfcare #positivity #anxiety #help #happy #healthy #support #motivationalquotes #wellness #smile #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #quoteoftheday @actionforchildrenuk #quotes #quotestagram #childwellbeing
🤔 REFLECTIVE FRIDAY 🤔 Over the past term, we have had hundreds of amazing golden nuggets from young people who have worked with us on The Blues Programme! 🙌 The @afcmerseysideblues team asked young people to summarise their thoughts 💭 of the programme in a short statement, and above are some fantastic quotes! 💬 Thank you to all of the amazing young people who joined us last term – Rhiann, Renee, Abbey and Rebecka all really enjoyed meeting you all and having some fantastic conversations about mental health and wellbeing! ❤️ We hope you were all able to take something away from the sessions! 🫂 #goldennuggets #reflection #quote #thankyou #hollylodge #ridgeway #bhsa #stanselms #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
📝 POETRY COMPETITION 📝 The Christopher Salmon Poetry competition is back again! The theme this year is Sunshine! ☀️ So, if you’re a student aged under 19 years old and educated in the Wirral – why not give it a go! 👍 Whether you love writing poetry or have never given it a go, this is a perfect opportunity to get involved! ✏️ The Christopher Salmon Foundation was set up to honour the life of Christopher who passed in 2009. ❤️ He had a passion and talent for writing poetry. The competition was started with the aim of encouraging young people to express themselves through poetry. 👥 There is a £100 prizes available for each age category – so you need to be in it to win it! 🏅 Want to get involved? Download the entry form from the link below, or click the link in our bio! Email your entry to [email protected] ! https://www.zillowirral.co.uk/latest/could-your-poem-win-you-100 Good luck! #poetry #chrissalmonpoetry #chrissalmonfoundation #competition #win #challenge #wirral #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealth #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #bethechange #instagood #positivity #mentalhealthresource #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters
❄️WINTER SIGNPOSTING❄️ As the schools break up and clubs finish for the winter break 🎄, we often find ourselves away from the people and places that make us feel happy. 😔 That’s why it’s important to remind ourselves of support 🫂 that are available over the half-term for extra mental wellbeing information and support. 💻 Below are a list of services that are available for you over the half term break! ☕️ Café Create – a social space for young people in Birkenhead, open on select days over the Christmas period. 🧠 YoungMinds, Mind and Zillo Wirral – online platforms providing information about managing our mental wellbeing. ☎️ Samartians (116 123), Shout (text 85258) and Childline (0800 1111) – anonymous and confidential text/phone/online chat services for if you want to speak to someone, as well as online information around managing wellbeing. 💻 Kooth – online counselling and support, as well as information around managing wellbeing. ‼️ In crisis, please call 999. Remember, you are never alone. ‼️ Stay safe, and have a fantastic winter break! ❤️ #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #signposting #youngminds #shout #childline #kooth #samaritans #shout #childline #mind #zillowirral #cafecreate
🌟Farewell Friday 🌟 This week we are saying goodbye our absolutely amazing Merseyside Manager Rachel💚👋🏼 We want to say a HUGE thank you for everything Rachel 💕you have been an incredible manager and support to the Merseyside Team and Service for the last 5 years! 👏🏻😊 🌟 You are such a fun, inclusive and fabulous person! 🌟 The team, services across Wirral and our fantastic young ambassadors will miss you lots but wish you the very best in the future and on your next adventure 💙 👏🏻 🧡Thank you for all you do🧡 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #fridaymood #fridayvibes #goals #goal setting #motivation #tgif #study #thankyou #thanks #Merseyside
👏 JOHN LEWIS ADVERT PARTNERSHIP 👏 The John Lewis advert is an iconic part of British Christmas-time television 🎄, and this year @johnlewis have partnered with @actionforchildrenuk to showcase the amazing work that we do to support children, young person and families! 👨👨👦👦 The advert is called ‘The Beginner’, and shows the story of Ellie’s experience of the care system at Christmas, as well as how some families might be preparing for Christmas in ways you might not expect! 🛹 Please give the video a watch via the link in our bio! 💻 This important reminder shows us that not everyone experiences Christmas the same, so be kind to others around you, especially at this time of year! 👭 Check in with your classmates or peers, and even offer to organise a fun activity! 🎉 We want every young person to feel valued and seen, especially at a time where it might feel isolating for some. 🫂 Please watch the John Lewis advert! It is a lovely force of positive change and we are so proud to be involved! ❤️ #johnlewis #johnlewischristmas #johnlewisadvert #TheBeginner #youngpeople #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #actionforchildren #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalwellbeing
🌬️ Breathing Techniques 🌬️ When we are stressed 😩 anxious 😥 angry 😠 or upset 😢, we take short chest breaths which can cause our body 🧍🏽 to feel panicked and lose oxygen 🌬️ which can cause our heart ❤️ to race and mind 🧠 to panic. Taking deep belly breaths 🌬️ slows our heart rate down 📈 and gives the correct amount of oxygen back into our bodies 🫁 and makes our mind calm again 🧠 Above are some different breathing techniques that you can try 🌬️ Remember! Only take deep breaths for 2-3 minutes 🕑 at a time, as too many can make us feel dizzy 😵💫 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #blues #wellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #positivevibes #selfcare #positivity #anxiety #help #happy #healthy #support #motivationalquotes #wellness #smile #bethechange #picoftheday #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #quoteoftheday @actionforchildrenuk #quotes #quotestagram #childwellbeing #breathing #breathingtechniques
🌟 Wonderful Wednesday 🌟 Hannah from @actionforchildrenuk and Mark from @thelfcfoundation would like to say a huge congratualtions to all the young people who have completed the On Target programme this term! 👏🎯 This week we hosted a 'graduation' event for each school at Anfield Stadium to celebrate the young people completing the programme 🏆 Each particpant was able to take home an On Target 'Mental Health First Aid Kit' which includes items to help mental wellbeing - such as an Action for Children Feel Good Stressball and a popular favourite 🤩 a helpful fidget toy ‘The stretchy person’ which can help with emotions such as worry or anger 👍🏼 The team have loved working in our Liverpool schools this term! All of our students have been amazing and it’s been an absolute pleasure to work with them all! Well done to our on Target Graduates! 🎉 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #instagood #positive #OnTarget #youthwork #actionforchildren #buildsoundminds #mentalhealthmatters #wellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #inspirekindness #motivation #lfc #youngpeople #anfield #wellbeing #graduates #liverpoolandwirral
Did you know that simple acts of kindness produce oxytocin, which helps improve self-esteem and increase social bonding. Kindness also helps reduce stress and improve our emotional well-being. ❤️ Benefits of kindness: 👉Practicing acts of kindness helps you build a social support system by connecting and bonding with others 👉Practicing kindness towards others encourages them to do the same, making the world a nicer place to live in 👉Being kind boosts your energy and happiness 👉Kindness lights up the pleasure center of the brain and releases serotonin and oxytocin, This is why kindness feels good. 🤔Can you think of one random act of kindness that you have performed recently towards others or yourself? #wellbeing #mentalhealth #healthylifestyle #instagood #mentalhealthresources #positive #positivemindset #resilience #mentalwellbeing #support #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #buildsoundminds #bethechange #kindness #instadaily #selflove #happy #behappy #childrenmentalhealth #positivemindset #loveyourself #instalike #instagood #positivity #positiveenergy #positivevibes #kindness #kindnessmatters
🎯 GOAL SETTING 🎯 Sometimes it’s hard for us to find motivation to get going and make positive changes in our lives. 💬One way we can do this is by goal setting! 🥅 Goal setting doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult! We can set ourselves small, obtainable goals which can still give us the same sense of accomplishment and pride. 😊 Above are some ideas of goals to start you off; Tidy your space 🧹 - Pick an area of your room, whether that be your bed, wardrobe, desk etc. Set a timer for 10 minutes and try to tidy as much as you can! ⏳️ Put rubbish in the bin and pop things back in their homes. If you feel motivated after 10 minutes, set another timer and start again! 👍 Finish something you started 💻 – If you’ve got some homework due or some revision you need to do, make a plan of what you need to get done! 📝 Set a 25-minute timer and try and get as much as you can done. Then, set a 5-minute timer and reward yourself! Search the ‘Pomodoro Technique’ for more information! 🍅⏳️ Healthy swap 🍎 – Choose one snack and swap this for a healthier alternative! Or try to add one healthier item to your diet! 🔃 Positive affirmation 💬 – Write down or say one positive statement about yourself, try and say this every morning or evening! Keep this note around your room or make a reminder on your phone! 🤳 Feel like you want more? ➕️ Try an extended goal which challenges you even more! Try something new, whether that be a new hobby or skill, or joining that club you have always been interested in! 🏊♂️ What goal are you going to set yourself this week? ⁉️ #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #goalsetting #reachforthestars #healthyswap #challengeyourself
Mindfulness is the practice of bringing your full awareness of the present rather than thinking about the past or the future. It's about living in the moment without judgment. Some people practice mindfulness for a few minutes a day, while others practice it as a lifestyle. The practice of mindfulness takes some weight off your awareness while helping you to focus on what is important. As a student, there are numerous advantages to be had when practicing mindfulness regularly. Here are some of the benefits you may come to experience. 👉Reduces stress and anxious feelings 👉Improves attention and focus 👉Improves the student's cognitive performance 👉Better emotional and social intelligence 👉Improves memory How can you be mindful: 🚶♂️Go for a walk ☺️Reward yourself for doing something that makes you feel good 📝Journal 🧘♀️Mindful breathing #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #blues #wellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #positivevibes #selfcare #positivity #anxiety #help #happy #healthy #support #motivationalquotes #wellness #smile #bethechange #picoftheday #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #quoteoftheday @actionforchildrenuk #quotes #quotestagram #childwellbeing #mondayvibes #mondaymotivation #bluemonday
❣️ WELLBEING WEDNESDAY ❣️ Often when we are experiencing negative or unknown events, such as failing a test 📝 or starting a new job 👨🎓, we can be over critical of ourselves and fail to give ourselves the recognition we deserve! 🏅 We may make comments about ourselves that are harsh 🗯, and even though it might be hard, it is important to try and reframe our mindsets 🧠 with the aim to think more positively about the situation! 📈 For example, if we made a mistake when learning something new 😖, we might think negatively about ourselves and our abilities. 👎 Instead, it can be more helpful to look at what we can learn from the experience! 🔍 It isn’t easy, but it’s another way we can try and reframe our mindset! 🖼🧠 What reframing statements are you going to use this week? ⁉️ #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #reframeyourmind #positivestatements #manifesting
⭐️Artwork Competition⭐️ We would love it if you could get involved in our competition for Action for Children Gratitude Week by creating your own piece of artwork inspired by the theme: 🧡 Thank you 💛 Gratitude and ❤️ Appreciation You could: ✏️ Draw 🎨 Paint 📚 Collage 📸 Photography Take a pic 📷 and share your artwork with via 📌 @afcmerseysideblues Or 📧 Email: [email protected] 🌟 Submit your entry by on Monday 28th of November 👍🏼 🎉 The winning design will be printed professionally and used as a ‘Thank you’ card within Action for Children 👏🏻 This competition is open to everyone ⭐️ We can't wait to see your entries. Have fun and good luck! ⭐️💙⭐️ @hollylodgeliverpool @st_marys_cc @bhs_academy @woodchurchhighschool @stanselmscollege @stjohnplessington @actionforchildrenuk #art #create #competition #selfcare #wellbeing #youngpeople #appreciation #gratitiude #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #afcbluescomp #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #youngpeople #buildsoundminds #happy #wellbeing #wellness #anxiety #anxietyrelief #stayhome #selfcare #stressrelease #creative #tgif #music #photography #thankful
❣️ WELLBEING WEDNESDAY ❣️ This week is International Stress Awareness Week! 🤯 The theme this year is working together to build resilience and reduce stress! 🤝🏾 As we are getting stuck into the school term - homework, exams, home life, clubs and more might lead us to feel quite stressed as we try to juggle all the elements in our lives. 🤹♂️ It might seem small, but some important things you could do to destress are; Scribble list – write down everything that is making you stressed or on your mind. Then, order this in priority of most important to least important – then tackle what you can! 📝 Meditate – following a guided meditation or just taking a couple minutes to just think about nothing can really help you refocus on tasks that might be stressing you out. 🧘♀️ Self-care – making sure you look after yourself is super important! Whether that be relaxing in the bath or fuelling yourself with a meal! 🛀 Communicate – reach out to friends or family for support. Often they will be able to help you with whatever is stressing you out! 💬 What are you doing to destress today?⁉️ #stressawareness #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset #StressAwarenessWeek #StressAwarenessDay #StressAwarenessSummit2022
📢 WE NEED YOUR HELP 📢 3rd December is International Day of People with a Disability 👩🏼🦽 and we would love you to be involved in creating a logo for our Action for Children content ⭐️ You may design a logo to represent a visible disability 👨🏽🦯 or a hidden disability🧍🏽♀️🌻 Some ideas to help you get started; 📝 Think about a logo you already know 🔡 Use words or 📸 photos or both! 🎨 Make it fun and colourful 📣 CLOSING DATE: NOVEMBER 25th 📣 If you want to get involved 📝, create a logo and send it directly to our instagram 📲 or to the email stated above 📨 💛 THANK YOU ❤️ #disability #december #competition #logo #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #youngpeople #help #bethechange #buildsoundminds #actionforchildren #afc #merseysideblues #disabled #hiddendisability #awareness #getinvolved #creative #design @actionforchildrenuk
🟡NATIONAL STRESS AWARENESS DAY🟡 Today is national stress awareness day! 🤯 Being stressed is an extremely common experience, however being stressed for a long time can have a negative impact on our bodies. 🤷🏻♀️👎 When we are stressed, our bodies release stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. 👨🔬 High levels ⬆️ of these hormones can made us feel low or run down. 😖 It’s important to make sure to take care of ourselves 🫂 and lower our stress levels when possible to make us feel better, and raise our happy hormones ⬆️ such as dopamine and serotonin! 😊 We can do this by; Reaching out whenever we feel stressed, or have a lot on our minds! 🗣 Spend some time to relax. Pop your phone down and do something for yourself, whether that be reading a book 📚, having a bath 🛁 or spending time with family or friends. 🧑🏻🤝🧑🏻 Being kind to ourselves – daily affirmations can help set us up for the day ahead 💬 – look at our post on daily affirmations a few posts back for some ideas! What are you doing today to relax and destress today? ⁉️ #stressawareness #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #mindfulness #selfcare #youngpeople #help #happy #healthy #support #wellbeing #wellness #smile #bethechange #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease #actionforchildren #wednesdayvibes #positivity #mindfulness #mentalhealthresource #mindful #stressrelease #mentalhealthmatters #positive #positivemindset @actionforchildrenuk
🍂Feel Good Friday 🍂 This week some of The Blues Merseyside Team 💙 have been to Croxteth Park, taking some time to catch up ☕️, get moving 🥾and enjoy getting wrapped up in the beautiful autumn weather 🍂🌤 We know how important it is to look after our mental health by connecting with others and keeping active. 🌷🧣🧤 ❓❔Did you know? Spending time outdoors and bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing.🌳🌿 It can help to improve your mood, reduce stress and anger, gives you time out to relax, helps you become more active and helps you to make new connections! ⭐️🐝👍🏼 To keep active and connected you could.. 🥾 Go for a Nature walk with someone 🪴 Collect some conkers 🚲 Go on a bike ride 🌲 Sit with in the park with a book 🐛 Go insect spotting 🦆 Find a pond 🐦Feed the birds With the seasons changing and the days getting a little darker it can be really easy to lose motivation! But even getting in a small amount of social and physical exercise a day and spending time in nature can really help lift your mood 🥰 What can you do this weekend to give yourself a Feel Good Friday boost? ☺️💡🍂 🐛🦋 #mentalhealth #mentalwellbeing #blues #wellbeing #mentalhealthawareness #positivevibes #selfcare #positivity #anxiety #help #happy #healthy #support #motivationalquotes #wellness #smile #bethechange #picoftheday #instagood #buildsoundminds #stressrelease @actionforchildrenuk #outdoors #nature #childwellbeing #walk #autumnvibes #fall #autumn #croxethpark @croxtethparkfarm @croxtethhall