South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 09/10/2012

With estimates that one in four people are affected by mental health issues such as depression or anxiety during their lives, this year’s global theme centres on measures which can be used to prevent depression, such as taking part in physical exercise and cultural activities.

Cllr Claire Young, Chair of the Communities Committee, said: “The wellbeing of residents is a top priority for the council. We have several schemes to help with healthy lifestyles, which can promote good mental health. By raising the profile of mental health care, we can reduce the stigma attached and support people with mental health conditions and their families.”

In South Gloucestershire, there are a number of resources and activities available to help people with mild to moderate depression.

Community cultural services manager Martin Burton said: “Our libraries provide an accessible and safe environment for people to get help. They have a health and wellbeing section containing a number of ‘Read Yourself Well’ books covering subjects like low mood and stress, anxiety and self esteem. We also have a collection of mood boosting books which can help people to relax. When we introduced this collection, more than 400 of these books were issued in the first month alone. Our librarians are here to help so if you need support just come in and ask.”

We also run a range of community learning courses which concentrate on building people’s self esteem and confidence. Details are available by calling 01454 864613 or email community.learning@southglos.gov.uk

Our popular programme of walks called Walking to Health celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. We offer a range of guided walks at a moderate pace over distances up to four miles which is a great way of getting out and about and exploring South Gloucestershire’s great scenery. It also provides an opportunity for socialising and is a great way to start getting fit. More details are available online www.southglos.gov.uk/walkingtohealth or call 01454 868006.

And if you are looking for inspiration on other activities to help stimulate the mind, our Discover Festival has bat walks, owl prowls and fungi forays on offer. A full programme is available here www.southglos.gov.uk/discover

We also have a healthy lifestyles team who work in the community attending events and visiting local workplaces. They provide information and advice on positive steps to mental wellbeing such as healthy eating options, sensible drinking, support to stop smoking, blood pressure monitoring and simple relaxation techniques for stress relief. For more information contact 01454 868006 or email foodandhealth@southglos.gov.uk