Prioritising Mental Well-being and Understanding Anxiety🧠
In a fast-paced world filled with endless demands, it is crucial to pause and reflect on the state of our mental well-being. Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a timely reminder to prioritise our mental health and promote understanding and support for those who may be struggling – and this year, the Mental Health Foundation is focusing on anxiety.
Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. In the United Kingdom alone, anxiety disorders affect around 8.2% of the population. Anxiety transcends age, gender, and background, leaving no one untouched.
It is however important we recognise that anxiety can arise from various disadvantages individuals face in their lives. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty, unemployment, and housing instability, can significantly contribute to anxiety. Furthermore, systemic inequalities, discrimination, and social isolation can amplify feelings of anxiety and distress. In 2020, the Office for Health Improvement & Disparity found that 23.9% of Newham residents over 16 are estimated to have a common mental health disorder.
At the Renewal Programme, we work to provide holistic support to residents of Newham facing a range of challenges, providing housing, food, advocacy, youth services, education, telephone befriending, and immigration advice, with the aim of empowering people to thrive independently. Although our work is open to all, our core emphasis is on those who fall through the gaps of statutory and societal support, particularly those facing severe or multiple disadvantages. We work to provide people from disadvantaged backgrounds with a sense of dignity, independence, and the means to take care of themselves.
Taking care of our mental well-being is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Just as we prioritise physical health, it is crucial to devote time and effort to our mental health. Engaging in self-care practices, seeking professional help, and reaching out to supportive networks are all essential steps in nurturing our mental well-being.
Let us encourage open conversations, break the stigma surrounding mental health, and extend empathy and understanding to those who may be struggling. Together, we can foster a society where mental well-being is prioritised, and everyone has access to the support they need.
Remember, you are not alone. Seek help, offer support, and let’s journey towards a world that values and protects the mental health of all its inhabitants. 🌱💚
