Action
Last week was Mental Health Awareness Week and the students took part in some activities that were aimed at promoting mindfulness and achievement. Whether it was mindful doodling or using beads to create pictures, there was creativity and a focus given in order to cut out the daily noise and distractions around us. Neither of the activities had any rules to follow, so it really was up to the individual as to which direction to take things.
‘Mindful doodling’ was our title for a variety of different styles of doodling, we wanted to remove any rules and barriers and just give ideas and suggestions for students to use and take in their own direction. You could try zentangles or neurographic art techniques but the idea is to slow down and focus on the pen strokes and the repetition.
We also had an opportunity to share some suggestions as to what actions work for us when we are feeling our mental health being challenged. Some of the students’ suggestions, along with others, have been posted on our Facebook page each day last week. We realised that different things work for different people and we enjoyed sharing them. Mental Health Awareness website (https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/) has more suggestions and information for you to look at. Within the website, there is printable information and top tips that have been tried and tested and is backed by scientific evidence.
Here are some of the actions shared by our students –
“Scheduling activities outside of the house.”
“Take time to work on one of my small crochet or knitting projects – easy to pick up then put down again – enjoy the process.”
“Read a book during the daytime.”
“To walk – not work – in my garden. Just looking and appreciating all growth (even weeds)”
“Always be kind.”
“Whenever possible, surround myself with people who have a positive attitude to life.”
“I listen to my favourite songs and sing along.”
“I enjoy and relish languishing in a hot bath in the middle of the day.”
“I walk my dog to my favourite place through the woods full of bird song, to the shore where I sit on a rock and listen to the waves.”
“Have a good cry.”
Mindful doodling activity – take your pen for a walk – MHAW 2026
butterfly coasters for MHAW 2026
painted rocks for MHAW 2026
Train coaster using Hama beads MHAW 2026
Mental Health Awareness Week – Action
“What does good mental health look like?
Good mental health is a state of emotional wellbeing that lets us cope with normal life stresses, feel confident and enjoy our relationships with others. When life feels more challenging than usual, it’s often a sign that our mental health needs some extra care and attention.
The good news is that protecting our mental health is easier than you might think. Taking practical steps to improve our mental health may feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Even small and simple actions can make an impact.” (www.mentalhealth.org.uk)