From Friday 24 July 2020 in England, it will be compulsory to wear a mask when visiting shops. For many people, the thought of wearing a mask can be accompanied by feelings of anxiety. Whether you yourself are worried about wearing a mask, or you want to better understand why a loved one might feel this way, we speak to an expert to get to the heart of the issue. 

8 self-development apps to download now

These days, we have the power of wellness at our fingertips. From apps to help you sleep, to others that keep you on track to achieve your personal goals, we've collected together our eight favourite downloads that will send you on your way as you set off on your self-development journey. 

Create a mindful garden

The modern world is full of distractions and, sometimes, it pays to slow down and tune-in. Nature can help us do that, and green spaces can flood our minds with soothing feelings. But that said, there are steps we can take to maximise the wellness effect of our outdoor spaces. Follow our tips to create a mindful garden that stimulates all five of our senses. 

Sit back, relax, and enjoy a copy of Happiful and make sure that you always have your magazine to hand by downloading the free Happiful app, available from the App Store and Google Play Store, where you can browse through issues and read the latest articles from Happiful. 

Self-care is about the things we can do to look after our own mental health

Young people told us that when they are struggling they are usually told to see a professional. They don’t often get much advice about how they could help themselves.

So, we spoke to professionals and looked at academic research. Then we drew up a list of strategies young people use (you can see the process in this self-care infographic).  We also published a report following a consultation with young people and their families online.

We're sharing these strategies with you to help you to manage your wellbeing.  It’s up to you to decide what helps.  If it works, keep doing it. If it doesn’t, stop and try something else.  And you can help us build an evidence-base for these activities by letting us know what works by clicking on the ‘Did this activity help your mental wellbeing’ button on each page.  This will help us decide which ones to research further.  We've also created a booklet to help you create your own self-care plan as part of our #SelfcareSummer campaign.

These activities are not a substitute for seeing a mental health professional. Sometimes we need outside help and advice. Getting help is good. No-one should feel bad about it. That’s what this site is about.

This self-care section was developed by Common Room and young people from mental health support group Hearts & Minds.

Help children and young people talk about loneliness 

A recent national survey of children and young people showed that one in ten 11 to 22 year olds reported often or always feeling lonely.

New to our schools programme, NHS approved Every Mind Matters Building connections resources aim to encourage young people in Year 6, KS3 and KS4  to discuss loneliness and provide them with self-care techniques they can use when they’re feeling lonely. 

To support teacher's on mental health, the Every Mind Matters tool is available on the School Zone to provide support on simple, practical advice for a healthier mind.   (27.11.2020)