This week we highlight Mental health & wellbeing in Aotearoa, focusing on connecting with people and making time for quality conversations with family, friends, and colleagues.
Nearly 1 in 3 New Zealand adults (aged 18 and over) experienced 'poor' mental wellbeing on the World Health Organization's WHO-5 scale. With the current pandemic and the fast, ever changing life around us, it is important for us to take the time to. We are all aware exercise is key to feeling good and is an important part of health and wellbeing for all ages. From children to the elderly, getting out in the fresh air can work wonders for your mentality. Cooking, baking, playing a team sport or just chilling out with a good book are one of many ways of finding your "Zen Zone" and achieving healthy doses of positive mental wellbeing.
With our changing world, dare I say; COVID 19 has had a massive impact on the world we live in, check out our earlier blog Lockdown Health - tips and financial help .
New Zealand comedian and icon Mike King is well known for his work as a prominent mental health educator and Ambassador for both "I Am Hope" and the "Key to Life Charitable Trust". He uses an unorthodox approach when talking to youth and wider communities, sharing his struggles with his inner critic and allowing people to recognize that everyone has problems and it's ok to ask for help.
Helpful tips for Adults from I'm Hope - Mike King
For children:
Recognising emotions is an important part of children’s development. Letting children express their emotions teaches them not to be afraid of their feelings. An idea is making up a 'Feeling chart" helping children name and notice their emotions.
Draw your Feelings from place2B
We hope you find this helpful!