This week Anglesey County Council is urging staff, partners and residents to take care of their mind and body during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Today (Monday, May 18th) saw the Mental Health Foundation launch its annual National Mental Health and Wellbeing Week (18-24 May) and the theme this year is kindness.
Anglesey’s Director of Social Services, Alwyn Rhys Jones said, “The theme for this year’s Mental Health and Wellbeing week is very appropriate considering the current challenges the whole world faces. This is an unprecedented and challenging time for us all and it is important that we take care of ourselves as well as our friends, families and neighbours.“
“Unfortunately, the Coronavirus will touch all of our lives in some way or another. It has placed additional stress on people whilst working under already challenging circumstances, caused significant disruption in people’s daily lives through isolation, with some experiencing loss of different types, putting strain on family relationships and being especially challenging for those already with mental health problems.”
He added, “Now more than ever it is important that we take care of our mental health and throughout this week we will be supporting Mind Cymru, a mental health charity, encouraging everyone to #SpeakYourMind and reach out to someone who needs a friend with a positive message, or share with them tips for coping to make sure they don't have to face this pandemic alone.”
Mental health is about how we think, feel and behave. It can affect anyone and take many different forms. Without support and treatment, mental health problems can have a serious affect on the individual and those around them. However, the majority of people who experience mental health problems can get over them, or learn to live with them, especially if they get help early on.
Council Leader, Councillor Llinos Medi added, “Many of us are worried about Coronavirus and how it will affect us and those we love. There are many coping strategies people can use, but the most common one during these times is connecting with friends and family online, and it’s more important than ever that we use our own experiences to help each other.”
“I’m urging everyone to support the campaign this week and reach out to someone who needs a friend with a positive message, or share with them your own tips for coping to make sure they don't have to face this pandemic alone. Sharing our stories help others see that they're not alone in the challenges they're facing.”
Further advice and information is available on Mind Cymru’s website, where they have created a dedicated page for those finding things emotionally hard right now during the Covid-19 pandemic.
For the latest information on services during the Coronavirus outbreak please visit the Isle of Anglesey County Council’s website, www.anglesey.gov.uk/coronavirus.
We will also be:
- Preparing regular bulletins for to local radio station MônFM
- And will be publishing any important information on our social media pages – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Please remember to follow the latest guidance provided by Public Health Wales and both the UK and Welsh Governments.
Stay home, stay safe, save lives.
ENDS: 18.05.2020