Embracing Lived Experience: Inspiring Stories to Transform Perspectives

Lived experience is a powerful teacher. It’s the wisdom gained through our own journeys, the lessons learned from navigating life’s highs and lows. But beyond personal growth, lived experience has the remarkable ability to positively impact others, offering hope, empathy, and understanding in ways that textbooks and theories cannot.

When we share our lived experiences, we create a ripple effect of support and connection. Whether it’s overcoming mental health challenges, navigating adversity, or achieving personal milestones, our stories have the potential to inspire, uplift, and empower those who may be facing similar struggles.

By opening up about our experiences, we break down barriers and reduce stigma surrounding issues like mental health. We show others that they are not alone, that their struggles are valid, and that there is hope for healing and growth.

Moreover, lived experience fosters empathy and compassion. It allows us to step into someone else’s shoes, to truly understand their perspective and validate their feelings. This empathy is a catalyst for meaningful connections and support networks, creating a sense of belonging and community for those who may feel isolated or misunderstood.

Additionally, lived experience can serve as a catalyst for change. When we advocate for issues based on our personal journeys, we lend authenticity and credibility to our cause. Our voices become powerful agents of change, challenging outdated societal norms and advocating for policies and practices that prioritize the well-being of all individuals.

In essence, lived experience is a gift—a gift that keeps on giving. It’s a testament to our resilience, our strength, and our humanity. So let’s continue to share our stories, to uplift and support one another, and to create a world where lived experience is celebrated and valued for the profound impact it has on individuals and communities alike.

Image of a person facing a storm with determination and resilience

The Power of Resilience: Weathering Life’s Storms

In the journey of life, challenges are inevitable. From unexpected setbacks to daunting obstacles, we all face moments that test our resolve. In these moments, resilience emerges as our greatest ally, empowering us to rise above adversity and emerge stronger than before.

Resilience is more than just bouncing back from difficult experiences; it’s about navigating through them with grace and fortitude. It’s the ability to adapt in the face of adversity, to find strength in vulnerability, and to keep moving forward despite the odds.

One of the most remarkable aspects of resilience is its universality. It knows no boundaries of age, gender, or background. Whether you’re a student grappling with academic pressures, a professional facing career uncertainties, or a parent juggling the demands of family life, resilience is a trait that can be cultivated and honed.

At its core, resilience is built upon a foundation of self-belief and optimism. It’s about embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than viewing them as insurmountable barriers. Cultivating a resilient mindset involves developing coping strategies, fostering a support network, and maintaining a sense of perspective even in the darkest of times.

Research has shown that resilient individuals possess certain key attributes, such as emotional intelligence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to maintain a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. These qualities not only help them navigate through adversity but also enable them to thrive in the face of uncertainty.

Moreover, resilience is a skill that can be strengthened through practice and perseverance. Just as muscles grow stronger with exercise, so too does our resilience when we actively engage with life’s challenges. Each setback we encounter provides an opportunity to build resilience, to learn from our experiences, and to emerge with newfound wisdom and resilience.

In today’s fast-paced and unpredictable world, resilience is more important than ever. It’s the secret ingredient that empowers individuals to overcome obstacles, pursue their goals with determination, and ultimately, live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

So, as we navigate the ups and downs of life, let us embrace the power of resilience. Let us face each challenge with courage and resilience, knowing that within every setback lies the opportunity for growth and transformation. And let us remember that no matter how fierce the storm may be, we have within us the strength and resilience to weather it and emerge stronger on the other side.

https://shawmind.thinkific.com/courses/resilience

Understanding Self-Harm: The Impact on Loved Ones

Self-harm is a deeply personal and complex issue that not only affects the individual engaging in the behaviour but also has a profound impact on their loved ones. Watching someone you care about struggle with self-harm can evoke a range of emotions, from fear and confusion to sadness and frustration. In this blog post, we’ll explore the effects of self-harm on loved ones and offer guidance on how to navigate this challenging situation with compassion and support.

The Emotional Rollercoaster:
When a loved one reveals that they are self-harming, it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions for those closest to them. Shock, disbelief, and sadness may be among the initial reactions, followed by a deep sense of concern and worry for their well-being. Loved ones may also experience feelings of guilt or self-blame, wondering if they could have done something to prevent the self-harm.

Understanding the Root Causes:
It’s important for loved ones to recognize that self-harm is often a coping mechanism for dealing with intense emotional pain or distress. Rather than being a deliberate attempt to cause harm or seek attention, self-harm is often a desperate attempt to find relief from overwhelming feelings that seem impossible to manage in any other way. By understanding the underlying reasons behind self-harm, loved ones can approach the situation with empathy and compassion.

The Impact on Relationships:
Self-harm can strain relationships between the individual and their loved ones, creating feelings of tension, mistrust, and distance. Loved ones may struggle to understand why their efforts to help or support are met with resistance or defensiveness, while the individual engaging in self-harm may feel isolated or misunderstood. Communication breakdowns and feelings of frustration can further exacerbate the strain on relationships.

Navigating Support and Treatment:
Supporting a loved one who is struggling with self-harm requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to listen without judgment. Encouraging open communication, expressing concern in a non-confrontational manner, and offering reassurance that they are not alone can help foster trust and connection. It’s also important for loved ones to encourage their loved one to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating self-harm.

Self-Care for Loved Ones:
Supporting a loved one who is self-harming can take a toll on one’s own mental and emotional well-being. It’s crucial for loved ones to prioritize self-care and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed. Setting boundaries, practicing stress-reduction techniques, and seeking guidance from support groups or online communities can also be helpful in managing the emotional impact of supporting someone who is self-harming.

Self-harm not only affects the individual engaging in the behaviour but also has a profound impact on their loved ones. By understanding the root causes of self-harm, fostering open communication, and prioritizing self-care, loved ones can offer meaningful support and navigate this challenging journey together with compassion and empathy. Remember, recovery is possible, and there is hope for healing and growth.

On Self-Injury Awareness Day, we stand together to shed light on the important issue of self-harm and its impact on individuals and their loved ones. This day serves as a reminder to break the silence surrounding self-injury, destigmatize mental health struggles, and offer support and understanding to those who are struggling. At ShawMind, we’re committed to providing resources and guidance for parents, caregivers, and individuals who may be struggling with self-harm. Our self-harm course offers valuable insights, practical strategies, and compassionate support to help navigate this challenging journey. Together, let’s raise awareness, break down barriers, and support each other in seeking healing and recovery. Join us in spreading awareness and support this Self-Injury Awareness Day. Learn more about our self-harm course here: Self-Harm Course

Showcasing a community that’s leaving no one behind

What’s going on in Sheffield?

Shawmind moved to Sheffield in August 2023 and in 3 short months we already we have formed some fantastic partnerships with local organisations and the community here.

Working alongside some of the top sports clubs, we have been fortunate enough to be able to provide recognition to local organisations for the work that they are doing, as well as provide necessary sponsorship and support to other organisations who need it. Our most recent partnerships include Sheffield Steelers, The Steeldogs, B. Braun Sheffield Sharks and The Hatters.

In early October we were able to give a local mental health charity, MentalMate, and its members the Sheffield Steelers VIP suite in recognition of their fantastic work within the community: they are a mental health boxing club who opened their gym in April and provide free access to the training and coaching facilities for people in the community who struggle with their mental health. They are also there for those who find that boxing provides a form of relief and can also give access to mental health first aid. They work with families and children who are struggling, providing safe spaces and someone to talk to at every gym training session. They have just been nominated locally for a Health and Wellbeing Award for their work in the community, and they very kindly like and repost all our posts on social media which is helping to build our profile locally.

Recently, the Sheffield Sharks played their most formidable opponents, the London Lions. Tickets were eagerly snapped up for this, but again, Shawmind had been fortunate to be able to secure and provide 35 tickets to members of the community, and to the children in Royston Scout Troop, a small troop now looking to raise funds to build their own scout hall.

Within the next few weeks our CEO, Peter, will be delivering mental health awareness training to the Sheffield Sharks – these players are role models within the community to whom many young children look up, so having them understand, and more importantly able to interact with, children who are struggling will have big impact.

Lastly, since moving to Sheffield, we are proud to be supporting the Mi Amigo Restoration Project, a memorial that deeply resonates with our community still today. The restoration plans for the memorial are crucial in order to maintain the site and ensure that it is accessible to everyone who wishes to pay their respects to the air crew who selflessly gave their own lives to protect children and families of Sheffield.

We are working closely with RAFA and the UK Veterans Gamers Association to do a landmark fundraising event in celebration of the unveiling of the Mi Amigo Memorial next year in Sheffield, supported by Meadowhall Shopping Centre who have allowed us an area upstairs to showcase our exhibition which will include elements from the Mi Amigo story and also that of our work with partners in pioneering mental fitness support within the online video gaming industry, as part of an educational enrichment programme.

It’s been a very busy few months but we are dedicated and excited to continue working with local communities, individuals and organisations to bring the best level of mental health awareness and fitness to Sheffield. We won’t stop striving to ensure that everyone understands the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and that everyone who needs support has access to that. We are small, but mighty organisation, building a community that will leave no one behind.

If you’re interested in the work we do and want to find out more or how we could work together, please get in touch via the contact form here and we will get back to you.

young boy using virtual reality headset to learn

The Impact of Technology on Children’s Mental Health: How to Limit Screen Time

As our society becomes more reliant on technology, it is important that carers and parents control the amount of time children and young people spend using screens.

Recent studies have shown:

30% of children and teens who used the internet for over 3 hours a day were diagnosed with depression.
Excess screen time inhibits young children’s ability to read faces and learn social skills, two key factors needed to develop empathy.
Children with more than one hour of daily screen time were more likely to be vulnerable in all five developmental health domains: physical health and wellbeing, confidence, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive development and communication skills compared to children reporting up to one hour of screen time/day.

It is important that children’s time spent using technology is limited, and it is the responsibility of parents and carers to reinforce rules. This is to ensure that young people’s mental health is cared for to prevent mental illness and mental health problems following them from childhood to adulthood.

Shawmind aims to support the mental health of children from an early age to equip them with the skills they need to build resilience and look after their own and others’ mental health. If you want to know more about supporting children’s mental health, read on.

Understanding the Impact of Technology on Children’s Mental Health

What are the positive aspects of technology for children?

Before we address the negative aspects of technology on children and teens mental health, it is important to understand some of the positive impacts of technology and how it can be used as a tool for good.

Technology can be used as a learning tool. With endless resources and information, any topic to want to learn about can be studied using the internet.

Platforms such as YouTube offer various tools to encourage children to explore their creative side, including art, composing music, and designing video games.

Also, due to the globalisation of the internet, technology allows children to foster a global awareness and cultural understanding. They can engage in virtual tours, explore other cultures and connect with people across the world.

Finally, it is important to understand that technology is here to stay. Although many aspects of a technology-reliant future seem scary, future careers will require candidates to be proficient in today’s emerging technologies.

What are the negative impacts of technology on children?

Sedentary lifestyle

Excessive screen time can lead to reduced physical activity which increases the risk of obesity and other disorders. Excessive screen time as opposed to playing outdoors, socialising with friends and partaking in activities can also hinder cognitive development.

Sleep disturbances and fatigue

The blue light emitted by screens and the engaging nature of technology can disrupt children’s sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep and fatigue during the day. This can impact their overall well-being and cognitive functioning.

Impaired social skills and relationships

Spending excessive time on screens can hinder the development of social skills, such as face-to-face communication, empathy, and emotional intelligence. It may lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining meaningful relationships with family and friends. This can negatively impact a child’s mental health.

Unrealistic expectations

Content on social media is specifically curated to appeal to our senses, promote an ideal lifestyle and develop insecurities to sell products. This can impact the way children and teens see their life and their bodies. Constant exposure to “perfect” content can cause self-esteem issues, which can lead to eating disorders and poor mental health.

Reduced attention span and cognitive abilities

Constant exposure to fast-paced digital content can decrease children’s attention span and make it challenging for them to concentrate and focus on tasks that require sustained attention. This can impact their academic studies and their ability to find enjoyment in non-technology based activities.

Risk of online dangers and cyberbullying

Excessive technology and social media usage increases the exposure to online dangers. This includes inappropriate adult content, cyberbullying, and online predators. Children may become victims of harassment or engage in risky social media without proper guidance.

Impaired academic performance

Excessive technology usage can negatively impact academic performance as it can distract children and teens during study time.

Dependency and addiction

Excessive use of technology can lead to dependency and addiction-like behaviours, where children feel a compulsive need to be constantly connected to screens. This can result in withdrawal symptoms when technology use is restricted and difficulty in self-regulating screen time.

Vision problems

Staring at a screen for too long can negatively impact the health of our eyes, especially during the developmental stages of children and young people. Children are at risk of developing digital eye strain and short sightedness with excessive screen time.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers in Monitoring Children’s Technology Usage

Setting healthy boundaries for screen time

As a parent or guardian, it is important to set healthy boundaries with technology. We encourage you to establish these boundaries as early as possible in your child’s life to get them accustomed to the healthy boundaries. However, it’s never too late!

Establish age-appropriate guidelines for screen time limits.
Create a technology use plan with specific rules and routines.
Enforce the guidelines consistently.
Encourage alternative activities beyond screens.

Provide access to books, art supplies, and outdoor spaces.
Be present and actively engage in quality family interactions.
Regularly reassess boundaries as children grow.
Maintain open communication.

Encouraging alternative activities and hobbies

Children get bored, so rather than waiting for them to reach out for that iPad, consider encouraging these alternative activities to technology usage.

Engage in outdoor play.
Encourage reading books
Foster imaginative play.

Encourage arts and crafts.
Promote board games and puzzles for cognitive stimulation.
Encourage participation in sports.
Support musical activities.
Engage in nature exploration and gardening.

Encourage social interactions with friends.
Encourage mindful meditation.

Leading by example

Children model the behaviour of their parents or adults in their lives. It is also important for adults to limit their screen time, especially in front of children and teens. Show them how to have fun without technology!

How much screen time is considered appropriate for children?

It is important to follow expert guidelines when setting screen time limits for your child.

Under 2 years old: Children under 2 should have zero screen time, except for limited video phone calls with family or friends. This is the perfect opportunity to foster interests and hobbies with your child without technology.
2-5 years old: No more than one hour per day accompanied by a parent, carer or sibling.
5-17 years old: No more than two hours per day. This doesn’t include homework.

Are certain types of screen activities more detrimental than others?

As mentioned earlier, technology can often be a force for good. Educational content that is age appropriate can be beneficial to cognitive development in moderation, such as YouTube educational content and education TV shows. However, some screen activities like social media can be dangerous, and should be limited.

Parents should always monitor the amount of time children are spending on technology no matter the content being consumed.

Shawmind has a mission to improve children and teen’s mental health across the nation. We want to provide early intervention to prevent a further mental health crisis. Do you want to support Headucation in schools? Please donate or choose to do one of our mental health courses. Alternatively, you can book Headucation for your school.

How We Can Improve Men’s Mental Health in the Workplace

Shawmind is on a mission to improve the mental health of young people across the UK. This Men’s Mental Health Week, we want to highlight the importance of men’s mental health at work.

1 in 8 men in England will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Many men struggle to open up to their peers about their mental health struggles.

If you’re an employer and are interested in providing better mental health support in your workplace, consider our workplace mental health training. If you want to learn how to improve men’s mental health in the workplace, read on.

What are some mental health issues that can affect men at work?

Men can experience a range of mental issues in the workplace. Some of these can be due to personal circumstances, while some can relate to circumstances in the workplace. Some of these mental health issues include:

Depression

Anxiety
Work-related stress
Burnout
Substance abuse
Imposter syndrome

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Anger management issues
Sleep disorders
Social isolation and loneliness
Low self-esteem

Relationship difficulties
Emotional exhaustion
Chronic fatigue
Lack of motivation
Difficulty concentrating

Feelings of inadequacy
Mood swings
Irritability

These feelings can be due to social pressure on men to earn more, and with the rising economic pressures in the UK, these issues could rise significantly. It is our aim to raise awareness so workplaces are well equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to provide effective mental health support for men in the workplace.

How do you tell if a male employee is struggling mentally?

It is commonly known that men often withhold their feelings and struggle to open up about their mental health. This can make it particularly difficult to identify which men in the workplace are struggling with mental health problems. Here are some indicators that may suggest a male employee is experiencing poor mental health:

Noticeable changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability, mood swings, or withdrawal from social interactions.

Decreased productivity or performance issues that are inconsistent with their usual work standards.
Frequent absences or tardiness without valid explanations.
Expressing feelings of fatigue, exhaustion, or lack of motivation.
Increased reliance on substances like alcohol or drugs.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Noticeable changes in appearance or personal hygiene.
Social isolation and a reluctance to engage in workplace activities.
Expressing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness.
Sudden weight loss or gain.
Increased instances of unexplained physical complaints, such as headaches or stomach aches.

Mental health training and education for managers and leaders

It’s important to approach these observations with empathy and sensitivity. If you suspect a male employee may be struggling, a mental-health trained member of staff should approach the individual on a 1-1 basis, and support should be given if possible. Remember, an employee cannot be forced to disclose their mental health to the organisation, so if the person is unwilling to open up, don’t force the issue.

If you want to improve mental health in the workplace, it is important to have a mental health trained staff member on site. Check out our workplace mental health training courses.

Create a supportive workplace environment

Workplaces should make a conscious effort to create an inclusive environment and tackle the mental health stigma. It is important to encourage open communication and for staff members to support each other and look out for each other’s mental wellbeing.

These positive workplace relationships can be developed through fun workplace do’s and activities that foster and develop friendships, so men feel more comfortable opening up to their peers.

Employees should also undergo workplace mental health awareness courses to understand signs of poor mental health in themselves and their colleagues, and know the workplace’s roadmap of who to share their concerns with if they are worried about their own or a colleague’s wellbeing.

Senior team should lead by example

When it comes to male mental health, destigmatising is key. Men may often feel weak if they open up about their mental health, however, if they see other men doing it, our experience suggests that they are then more likely to confide in someone about their own mental health struggles.

This is why it is important for leaders and managers to openly prioritise mental health and well-being, demonstrating that it is valued within the organisation. This encourages employees to follow suit and take their mental health seriously. In fact, mental wellbeing should be baked into the organisation’s strategy, so that it flows into everything the organisation does.

Offer flexible working arrangements

Since its rise in popularity due to the pandemic, it has been reported that hybrid working improved the mental health of some employees. Not only is this beneficial to employees, who get to stay at home with their families, exercise, practice self-care and get efficient sleep, it also benefits companies due to increased productivity as mental wellbeing increases.

Encourage a good work-life balance

A toxic attitude to work-life balance can severely negatively impact the mental health of employees. Male employees are particularly susceptible to being overworked due to social attitudes towards male work ethic and the pressures of men to be successful breadwinners, which can lead to intense stress.

It is essential for companies to promote a healthy work life balance and ensure employees aren’t working too much. It is important to foster positive attitudes towards hobbies and personal commitments, so employees can look after their mental health.

Be inclusive and reject toxic masculinity

It is important for companies to recognise that men come in different shapes and sizes, with varying interests and hobbies! Narrow attitudes towards men can often constrict their personality and can lead to mental ill health conditions.

Part of men’s mental health week is to raise awareness around toxic standards of masculinity and how this can impact the mental health of men. Here are some examples of toxic masculinity in the workplace that can negatively impact men:

Suppression of emotions
Hyper-competitiveness
Male “banter” which can border on bullying

Stigmatisation of seeking help
Workaholic culture
Narrow definitions of success
Dismissal of work-life balance
Macho culture

Lack of support for work-family integration
Sexual / gender, racial, religious, intellectual, socio-economic or cultural discrimination
Strong drinking culture / substance abuse

Workplaces should tackle aspects of toxic masculinity and ensure that all men feel included in the workplace. If a guy doesn’t want to go for a beer after work, or prioritises his family commitments over staying late, he should not feel ashamed or demasculinised.

It is important to consider all aspects of masculinity and ensure everyone feels included and valued.

Provide male mental health resources

Employers can consistently forward male mental health resources to all employees that may be educational and informative, and useful to break down stigma. These can help improve male mental health and wellbeing at work and make men feel that their mental wellbeing is valued in the workplace.

Ensuring the conversation around mental health is consistent and ongoing fosters an environment that is mental health positive, which allows men to feel more comfortable to speak about their mental health issues.

Recognise their achievements and efforts

Everyone likes to feel valued in the workplace. We encourage workplaces to celebrate employee’s accomplishments and acknowledge their efforts to promote a positive work atmosphere. Recognising their value and contributions can boost morale and well-being.

If you want to support mental health across the UK, please donate. If you want to improve mental health in your workplace, consider our workplace mental health training courses.

10 Ways to Support a Young Carer in Your School This Carers Week

Shawmind is on a mission to raise the levels of mental health awareness and understanding in schools. This Carers Week, we want to raise awareness and highlight the challenges young carers may experience, and how schools can offer effective support.

Reports estimate that there are around 800,000 young carers in the UK. We want to help schools provide effective support for the mental health, wellbeing and education of children and especially young carers across the UK.

If you want to support the mental health of young carers in your school, find out more about Headucation.

Identifying young carers in the school

Before implementing practices to support young carers in your school, it’s important to identify who they are. Your school should have a system in place to identify who the young carers are so they can be offered the proper support they need.

Some signs someone may have caring responsibilities to look out for include:

Regular lateness
Change in hygiene/appearance
Change in behaviour – becoming aggressive or angry, withdrawn or quieter
Tiredness

Low attention span
Lack of motivation
Low attendance
Not completing homework
Feelings of anxiety

Parent/guardian uses disabled parking space
Lack of parent/guardian attendance to parents evening/other school events
On pupil premium/free school meals
Low mood/mental ill-health

If teachers or staff notice the above signs, it is an indication that the child needs to have a meeting with the young person to get to the bottom of the issue.

Building awareness and understanding

Supporting young carers starts by building awareness and understanding of their circumstances. It is important to highlight what a young carer is, what their responsibilities are and how this may have an impact on their education and mental health.

This way, staff and teachers are fully equipped with the knowledge of what a young carer is so they can provide the necessary support. Students should also be aware of what a young carer is so they can provide support to their peers.

Providing emotional support

Being a young carer can be an emotionally difficult and isolating experience. Many young people across the country are juggling being a carer with their social lives and educational responsibilities. This can have a significant impact on their mental health, and it is important to consider their wellbeing from a holistic lens.

Schools should implement support and counselling services like Headucation, or groups for the young carers in their school. They should have at least one trusted, dedicated staff member who they can confide in and express themselves to.

It is also worth setting up a club for the young carers in the school to meet up regularly, so they can find solace in individuals who are experiencing the same struggles as them and avoid being lonely. This is important for them, as many young carers often neglect their social lives, which can impact their mental health. Also, they can support each other emotionally and develop meaningful friendships, develop resilience and learn new skills.

Academic support and flexible learning

Young carers may often neglect their education due to their carer responsibilities. If teachers notice a decline or plateau in academic performance, it is important to provide academic support to help them through their challenges. This could include:

Flexible deadlines and homework extensions

Individualised learning plans
Regular communication and check-ins
Additional academic support and resources
Homework clubs and study groups
Academic mentoring

Time management skills
In-class support and accommodations
Liaising with support services
Celebrating achievements

This can significantly help a young carer with their academic responsibilities. It is also important to have regular check-ins to keep up-to-date with their lives and tailor the support accordingly.

Collaboration with carer support organisations

It is important to recognise when your institution needs professional advice and guidance when it comes to supporting your carers. There are many organisations and charities that can support you and provide advice so you can take the right steps when providing a young carer with support.

You could speak to your local council to find any local carer support organisations, and remain in consistent contact so they can keep up to date with your school, and you can keep your school’s wellbeing policy up to date.

Providing respite and relaxation opportunities

It is important to highlight the challenges young carers face and recognise their struggles. Where most young people finish school and go home to a place of relaxation, young carers may have a long list of duties that are waiting for them when they come home. Being constantly mentally and physically active can impact their mental wellbeing, leading to fatigue and exhaustion, compounded by the demands made of them emotionally by the adults in their care.

It is important for schools to support the mental health and wellbeing of young carers, and provide the opportunity for respite and relaxation if they feel they are physically or mentally exhausted. Teachers should be trained to recognise signs of exhaustion and offer relaxation opportunities and mental health days.

Young carers who need a break could be taken out of non-compulsory classes or provided with time to relax with a book in the library or take a peaceful walk on the playground with the supervision of a staff member. This can help them unwind and recuperate in time for their more important lessons.

Young carers should also be taught how to practise self-care, prioritise their wellbeing and stress management techniques such as mindfulness practices, so that they can use it when they are at home. This ensures that they are looking after themselves and building resilience.

Engaging with parents and guardians

Schools should be in regular contact with the parents or guardians of young carers, and understand any home circumstances that could impact them, or raise a safeguarding concern if warranted. Regular contact allows for schools to tailor the support and care they offer each young carer to ensure they are making their lives as easy as possible.

Schools should also regularly update parents or guardians on the support they are providing, and offer any resources or information to parents that can support the young carer.

Addressing attendance and punctuality issues

Young carers can often have a hard time being punctual or attending school. This can be due to their carer responsibilities overtaking their time, or their exhaustion from an irregular sleep schedule due to nights of caring.

Schools should implement strategies to address attendance and punctuality challenges some young carers may have. They should also do welfare checks on any absences to ensure the child is okay, and offer any support, or raise a safeguarding concern if appropriate. If a child is absent frequently, entice them to come to school by offering relaxed learning techniques, as they may not realise they need a break from being at home.

Evaluation and continuous improvement

Schools should regularly reflect on the effectiveness of their support strategies and implement any necessary changes or alterations if aspects of the strategies aren’t working as effectively as they should.

Collecting feedback from young carers within the school will allow schools to adapt accordingly and implement necessary changes, ultimately supporting the wellbeing and educational needs of the young carers.

Celebrating and recognising young carers

This carers week, celebrate and recognise the achievements, resilience and challenges young carers face. It is important to recognise their contributions and selflessness as they care for their families and communities.

Recognition of the contributions they make can uplift their spirits, boost their self-esteem and make them feel valued by their community.

Shawmind has a mission to improve children and teen’s mental health across the nation. We provide early intervention to prevent a further mental health crisis in the next generation. If you want to support Headucation, please donate or choose to do one of our mental health courses. Alternatively, you can book Headucation for your school.

man walking his dog in the forest practicing mindfulness

Step into Mental Fitness: Celebrating National Walking Month

It’s National Walking Month! As part of mental health awareness to boost the mental health of people across the nation, we want to highlight the mental health benefits of walking,

Did you know? Studies show that there is an 18% reduction in depression amongst adults who get just HALF of the daily recommended physical activity.

This blogpost will discuss:

The benefits of walking for mental wellbeing
How to fit walking into your routine

How to get kids involved in walking
How to practise mindfulness when walking

Benefits of walking for mental health

You might know walking as good for your physical health, but did you know it has many mental health benefits too? Here are some of the mental health benefits of walking you can benefit from this National Walking Month:

Reduced risk of depression and anxiety

Many studies have shown that there is a strong link between exercise, walking and a reduction in anxiety and depression. It is important that we get regular fresh air exercise on a daily basis to prevent depression and anxiety.

Improved sleep

Studies have shown how there is a strong link between sleep and exercise. Those who exercise on a daily basis tend to get better quality sleep throughout the night. This has a positive impact on both physical and mental health by reducing negative moods and promoting overall well-being.

Stress reduction

Exercise and walking releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals, which can help reduce stress. Also, walking in nature can be relaxing and calming, especially if you practise mindfulness, which can reduce stress and make you feel energised.

Increased self esteem

Walking can make you feel really good about yourself! When you set a goal to walk every day, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and achievement, which can boost your self-esteem. Also, walking is the perfect opportunity to self-reflect and practice gratitude.

Improved cognitive function

Walking is good for the brain! Studies show that those who walk regularly have improved memory and a reduced risk of cognitive decline such as dementia. John D. Omura a et al conducted a study which found that cognitive decline is almost twice as common among adults who are inactive compared to those who are active.

How to fit walking into your routine

Start small

Some people can walk marathons, and some can just walk around the park. Either way, it’s best to start with what you feel comfortable with. Stick with what you can do, if you push yourself too much you might give up!

Set realistic goals

It’s good to set goals, but make sure they’re realistic. If you struggle making time for walking, start by setting a goal of only walking on weekends, or only walking to work on warm days! This way, you won’t get put-off by your goals. Whatever your goals are, make sure they work for you and your lifestyle.

Incorporate walking into your daily routine

We all have busy lives and packed schedules, so rather than working your routine around walking, try working walking into your routine. Rather than driving to the shops, you could walk. You could walk to pick the kids up from school, walk the dog, walk during your lunch break or even walk to work.

Walk with a friend or group

If you’re dealing with loneliness, walking with a group, friends or family can be a great way to combat loneliness and boost your mental health and wellbeing. If you’re feeling lonely, reach out to people you know and ask if they want to go on a walk. Alternatively, find walking groups in your community, you could ask your local Facebook group if anyone wants to start one!

Listen to music, podcasts or audiobooks

Walking can be the perfect time to get some ‘me time’. We all like a little bit of time to ourselves, so be sure to listen to your favourite music, podcasts or audiobooks. This can make you feel more motivated to walk and enjoy the time you spend on your walks.

Explore New Areas

Walking the same route can get a tad boring! Make sure to switch it up by exploring new neighbourhoods and parks in your area. Remember to be safe and take a friend with you!

How to get kids involved with walking

Set a good example

Parenting starts with setting a good example! If you show your child that you enjoy walking and walk regularly, they will see it as a fun activity. This way, they will want to incorporate it in their lives, even when they are older.

Establish walking in their routine

Whether you want to walk to school, walk after school or walk after dinner, it is important to make walking a normal part of your child’s routine.

Music or dance walk

Pick a safe and suitable location, such as a forest trail or a park, and put some of yours and your child’s favourite dance songs. Now it’s time to have a little boogie along your walk! This can make walking more fun and enjoyable.

Walking challenges

Children love a little bit of competition. If you give them a walking challenge, they will feel motivated to hit their targets. You can set them a goal of 2000 steps a day to start with.

Mindful walks

Mindfulness is a great practice for children, and what better time to practise mindfulness than on a pleasant walk. There are so many sensory experiences to soak in, and walking is the perfect time to reflect and be in tune with your body.

Make walking fun!

Here are a few things you can do with your kids to make walking more fun:

Play ‘I Spy’ or a scavenger hunt

Play follow the leader
Bring friends along
Get them to photograph their surroundings
Bring snacks
Find an item from each colour of the rainbow

Stop at local monument to learn about local history
Teach them about nature

How to practise mindfulness on walks

Mindfulness can reduce stress, anxiety, improve cognitive function and increase our overall mental health. Here are a few ways you can practise mindfulness on your walks:

Pay attention to your senses, focus on what you can see, feel, smell, touch and hear.
Take slow, deep breaths. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth.
Walk slow and deliberately, paying attention to each step you take.
Focus on the present moment.
Practice gratitude.

Shawmind has a mission to improve mental health across the nation. We want to provide early intervention to prevent a further mental health crisis. If you want to support our mission, please donate or choose to do one of our mental health courses.

How Stress Impacts Your Overall Wellbeing

We all experience stress at some point in our lives. Although some stressful periods can come and go, it is important to consider that excessive stress can have an impact on our overall well-being.

In 2018, 74% of adults in the UK felt ‘unable to cope’ from high levels of stress. During this Stress Awareness Month, as part of our mental health awareness aim, we want to raise awareness about the impacts of stress.

We’ll be discussing the long term and short-term effects of stress, as well as some signs you should consider which indicate you are experiencing stress.

What are the short-term effects of stress?

Body aches

Excessive tension in our body can lead to stress headaches, also known as tension headaches. Some individuals experiencing stress may also get stomach aches and muscle aches.

Although painkillers can relieve the discomfort, the only way to properly cure these issues is to destress.

Poor sleep quality

During periods of stress, our brains are overworked and we may be constantly thinking about the stressors in our lives. Unfortunately, this can negatively impact the quality of sleep that we get. We may find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Quality sleep is one of the most important things for our physical and mental health. Lack of sleep can lead to a number of complications.

Mood fluctuations

Stress can impact our mood. We may experience a range of negative emotions along with stress. This includes anxiety, sadness, irritability, anger and even depression.

Difficulty thinking straight

Stress can negatively impact our cognitive function. When we’re stressed, a large portion of our thinking capacity is focused on our stressors. During periods of high stress levels, we can find it difficult to remember things, concentrate or make decisions.

Decreased immunity

Stress can impact our immunity, meaning we are more likely to contract viruses and infections. Fighting off any illness may take longer than usual due to the low immunity.

What are the long term effects of stress?

Cardiovascular diseases

Stress can increase blood pressure which can cause an individual’s heart to work overtime. Over a long period of time, this can have detrimental impacts to a person’s cardiovascular health, leading to complications such as hypertension, heart disease and stroke.

Digestive issues

Stress releases hormones in the body that can cause our organs to function differently. Chronic stress can lead to issues such as IBS, stomach ulcers, acid reflux and more.

Reproductive complications

Stress can interfere with reproductive health through hormonal imbalances. An individual experiencing chronic stress can deal with fertility issues and menstrual irregularities.

Serious mental health issues

If left untreated, stress over long periods of time can lead to serious mental illnesses that can be more difficult to treat. Examples of this are depression, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders and more.

Obesity

Stress can increase the level of cortisol in the body, which can increase insulin resistance, which leads to high blood sugar levels and fat storage. Furthermore, many stressed people may overeat and under exercise which can lead to obesity.

Alezheimers

Prolonged stress can lead to cognitive decline which puts individuals at risk of developing Alezheimers.

What are two warning signs of stress?

It is important to pay attention to the warning signs of stress so you can address the issue before it becomes serious. If you spot these signs in your behaviour or someone else’s, it is time for a stress management intervention to improve mental health.

Body Pains
Fatigue
Sleep disturbances.
Anxiety
Irritability
Mood swings
Sadness
Feeling overwhelmed.
Racing thoughts
Forgetfulness
Inability to concentrate
Poor judgement.
Overeating or undereating
Isolating oneself
Procrastinating
Neglecting responsibilities.
Substance Abuse
Changes in social interaction

How to reduce stress

If you’re feeling stressed, it is important to tackle the issue and deal with the stress before it becomes too late and you experience some of the long term side effects. It is important to relieve stress early, so if you spot any of the above signs, it is time to prioritise your mental and physical health and get to the root of the problem.

A few things you can do to manage stress and boost your emotional health is to stay physically active, indulge in hobbies, socialise with friends and family and practice mindfulness.

Shawmind is an early intervention charity. We’re on a mission to improve mental health awareness. Our ‘Understanding Stress’ course can give you the skills and knowledge you need to manage stress.

As a charity, we rely on your donations to provide schools with mental health education. Please consider donating here.

Why Stress Management is so Important

Stress is an inevitable part of life, and we will all experience it at some point. Although some forms of stress can work as healthy motivation, excessive and constant stress can have a negative impact on our physical and mental health.

In 2018, 74% of adults in the UK felt ‘unable to cope’ from high levels of stress. During this Stress Awareness Month, as part of our mental health awareness aim, we want to promote stress management as a method of improving your mental health.

If you’re experiencing stress, it can be difficult to understand how to manage it. We’ll be discussing stress management techniques and why stress management is important for a happier, healthier life.

How is stress defined?

Stress can be described as a psychophysiological response to both internal and external pressures, which negatively impacts the mental health of an individual. Stress can be an innate reaction to external factors, from relationship issues, financial complications, job-related pressures or an unstable home environment.

During stress, the body can undergo hormonal changes and have an increase in blood pressure, which can have physiological impacts. Stress can impact our health in many ways. While some forms of stress can act as a healthy form of motivation, excessive stress can be damaging to our mental and physical wellbeing.

The emotional impact of stress

Stress can impact our emotional wellbeing in many ways. Here are some side effects of stress:

Anxiety
Irritability
Moody
Frustrated
Sadness
Depression
Hopelessness
Demotivation
Panic
Difficulty focusing
Withdrawal from social situations
Lack interest in activities once enjoyed

What are the benefits of stress management?

Improved physical health

Stress can cause physiological changes to the body. We may suffer from fatigue or break out in a rash because our bodies are telling us we need to take a break. Controlling stress levels can lead to an improved hormonal balance and better physical health.

Better mental health

Stress rarely comes alone. In fact, it typically brings a whole bunch of other mental health issues with it! Handling stress levels can improve your mood, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms and bring back your motivation.

Quality sleep

Stress can decrease the quality of our sleep significantly. Not only can we find it difficult to switch off when we feel stressed, but the sleep we do get can often be broken sleep. When you’re stressed, it can feel like no amount of sleep is ever enough. Stress management can decrease our stress levels and can improve the quality of sleep we get which is better for our overall mental and physical health.

Increased productivity

Stress can make us feel overwhelmed and can distract us from focusing on our daily duties. When you decrease stress levels, you will have a clearer mind and will possess more motivation to do things throughout the day.

Successful relationships

When we’re experiencing high levels of stress, we typically lack motivation to foster and maintain positive relationships with friends, family and partners. We can also become more withdrawn and less social.

Decreasing stress levels can make us approach relationships with a positive outlook and can increase our social motivation.

Better coping skills

Stress management can provide individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to manage stressful situations in the future and manage their emotions throughout their lives.

What are some stress management techniques

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a meditation practice that involves the individual being present in the moment and paying attention to their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgement. This includes techniques such as body scanning, mindful deep breathing and mindful eating.

Mindfulness can be incorporated into almost all daily activities, from mindful driving commutes to breathing.

Regular exercise

Exercising is essential for our overall wellbeing; however, the mental benefits of exercise are often overlooked. When we are physically active, we release endorphins into the body which can make you feel good and improve your mental health.

Participating in hobbies

When experiencing high levels of stress, we can often become demotivated to participate in any of our hobbies. However, taking time to experience the things we enjoy can lift our spirits, improve our emotional health and relieve stress.

Here are some ideas for stress relieving hobbies:

Yoga or meditation
Reading
Colouring or drawing
Knitting or crochet
Gardening
Cooking or baking
Walking or hiking
Listening to music
Writing
Playing a musical instrument

Time management

When we manage our time efficiently, we feel more confident in our day going to plan. We can tackle tasks in due time and find time for ourselves. We recommend creating a schedule and sticking to it so you stay organised and find time for rest and hobbies that you enjoy.

Social time

Spending time with friends and family members can help us feel more connected and supported. If you’re struggling with stress, it is important to speak to a trusted person in your life who could give you some personalised advice.

Take regular breaks

Overworking our minds and bodies can lead to increased stress levels. Taking regular breaks can give our minds a rest and decrease stress. Whether that break is a holiday, a walk in the park or time for a quick doodle, it will be sure to decrease stress levels.