It is increasingly recognised that taking care of our mental health is as important as maintaining good physical health. Despite this, a recent survey by Public Health England (PHE), revealed that more than eight in ten (82%) people from an Asian background have experienced early signs of poor mental health such as stress, anxiety, low mood and trouble sleeping in the last 12 months.
Poppy Jaman, Non-Executive Board Member at Public Health England said, “Through my work and through my own personal experience of depression as a British Bangladeshi woman, I know that while social and societal stigma attached to poor mental health has become less prevalent over the years, there is still a reticence to seek help when faced with mental illness. All too often things can escalate simply because people don’t know the signs to look out for, where to turn to for information or support or who to talk to.
"Good mental health helps us to live a fulfilled life and helps us to flourish. Positive mental wellbeing is the foundation for healthy relationships, for our ability to think clearly and make good decisions and for job and business prosperity as it helps us to relax more, be more productive, enjoy our lives more, and be better prepared for life’s ups and downs. As such, Public Health England is encouraging everyone, including those from the South Asian community, to look after their own mental health, and notice and guide friends, family and work colleagues who might be struggling to the Every Mind Matters website. You can all start by completing 5 questions which will generate your personal ‘Mind Plan’. This takes 3 minutes and it is free.”
The plan recommends a range of evidence-based self-care actions for each individual, which are designed to deal with stress, boost mood, improve sleep and help people feel more in control, from breathing exercises, reframing unhelpful thoughts to ways to connect with others.
Poppy added, “Early intervention can help alleviate the most common mental health concerns, and prevent them from escalating into more serious, clinical conditions. That’s why I’m thrilled to support Every Mind Matters. Whether it’s being more active or making time for friends and family, Every Mind Matters is packed with free, simple and proactive tips to help us have good mental health. So, my message is, if you’re concerned about stress, low mood, trouble sleeping or anxiety, check out Every Mind Matters today.”
