I wrote this recent review of Mental Health Awareness Week at YouthLink Scotland.

https://www.youthlinkscotland.org/news/may-2020/mental-health-awareness-week-at-youthlink-scotland/

 

In many ways, last week was no different to any other across the youth work sector with the usual kindness, connection and collaboration to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people and youth workers clear for all to see. It was also another week where the necessary creativity and innovation was demonstrated across digital platforms to ensure that the usual variety of activities were delivered and one to one and group sessions held as we continue to adapt our working practices during COVID-19.

What made the week special was that it was Mental Health Awareness Week, and the theme for 2020 was kindness.

At YouthLink Scotland we featured a series of 5 videos, released each day, with a different mental health related theme. The topics were chosen based on the views of young people and youth workers from our member organisations.

We began on Monday with We All Have Mental health, before following on Tuesday with Feelings. Next was Stigma and Discrimination before exploring the link between our Mental Health and Wellbeing and the Environment on Thursday. The final theme for the week was Self Care. All of the videos are available on our Twitter account, Instagram story and on Facebook.

We also featured a blog which included thoughts on these topics and more, with a particular focus on how our mental health and wellbeing is being impacted by COVID-19.

Mental Health Awareness week 2020 will certainly be remembered in the youth work sector for not only the year of the pandemic, but for the creativity, collaboration and kindness on show.

For more information contact our Mental Health and Wellbeing Officer, Sean Humphreys - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For other videos on supporting the mental health and wellbeing during lockdown, see this collaboration with our partners Young Scot.