The Elephant in the Room – Time to Talk about our Emotions
Creating the link between World Suicide Prevention Day: Tuesday 10th September 2019 and World Mental Health Day: Thursday 10th October 2019

Keep learning - Take 5 is the Public Health Agency’s framework for mental well-being.

Every week as part of the Elephant in the Room Campaign, they are taking one of the Five Ways to Well-being and sharing some top tips about how you can increase your resilience and emotional health.

Learning enhances your self-esteem and encourages social interaction. The practice of setting goals is often related to adult learning and is frequently associated with higher levels of well-being. Learn something new today?

Here are a few ideas:

· Do the crossword each day in your daily paper
· Read the news or a book
· Look up one fact a day: For example: ‘Dreamt’ is the only the English word ending in MT….bet you didn’t know that before reading this – you’re trying to think of another now.
· Research something you’ve always wondered about
· Learn a new word this week
· Don't be afraid to try something new, rediscover an old hobby
· Take on a different responsibility, for example, learn to play an instrument, or how to cook your favorite food.
· Set a challenge you will enjoy.

Learning new things will enable you to be more confident as well as promoting your mental and emotional well-being. It’s good to learn more about mental health and things you can do to help you on your journey of recovery. Don’t forget to let them know what you have learned by using #ElephantTalk to share your messages on social media!

There are lots of useful numbers in the Elephant campaign pack. It is a good idea to have these in your phone just in case:

· Lifeline: If you’re in distress or despair, you can call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000 and talk to an experienced counsellor in confidence.

· Samaritans: A safe space you to talk: 116 123

· Inspire Workplace helpline (formerly Carecall): 0808 800 0002

To find out more about the campaign and keep talking about the ‘elephant in the room’, download the interactive pack from our website or contact the Health Improvement Department on (028) 71865127 or by email at: [email protected]

Why not try their Stress Control drop-in sessions across the Trust. Sessions are open to everyone and you are welcome to bring a friend, relative or carer along with you. There is no referral system, just turn up, take a seat, then sit back and learn some great ways you can control your stress levels. It will be a very relaxed informal setting and you can come and go as you please.

Derry/Londonderry - Foyle Arena
Thursday 12th September to Thursday 17th October 2019
6:30pm – 8:00pm.

Enniskillen - Fermanagh House
Tuesday 17th September to Tuesday 22nd October 2019
6:30pm – 8:00pm

Omagh - Silver Birch Hotel
Monday 23rd September to Monday 28th October 2019
6:30pm – 8:00pm

For more information, please contact: [email protected]