Council launches new campaign in response to rising mental wellbeing needs
A new campaign has been launched in Staffordshire in response to growing concerns around mental wellbeing, both nationally and across the county.
The ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’ campaign is being delivered by Staffordshire County Council to help residents improve their mental and emotional wellbeing.
It focuses on challenging residents with various actions based on five proven ways to boost wellbeing: Connect, be active, give, take notice, and keep learning.
The first part of the campaign encourages residents to sign up to weekly emails packed with inspiration, practical challenges and motivational content.
The journey begins with a self-assessment of wellbeing and ends with a reflection on progress, encouraging participants to see how far they’ve come.
Each week focuses on one of the five themes, offering ideas of simple activities to improve wellbeing.
For example, reconnecting with a friend, taking a mindful walk or learning something new.
Martin Rogerson (pictured), Cabinet Member for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Staffordshire has seen a steady rise in mental health challenges, with increasing emergency hospital admissions for self-harm and new diagnoses of depression, rising above the national average.
“Having good mental health helps us manage stress, improve our physical health, relate better to others and make healthy choices.
“This campaign focuses on prevention and will highlight some simple tools to help people look after their mental and emotional wellbeing.
“By taking a proactive approach together, we hope to relieve pressure on mental wellbeing services across Staffordshire.”
In 2023–24, Staffordshire recorded 137 emergency hospital admissions per 100,000 people for intentional self-harm, above the national average of 117 in England.
In the same period, Staffordshire recorded an increase from just over 10,000 people to over 12,600 people diagnosed with depression.
People can find out more on the 5 Ways to Wellbeing webpage and anyone interested in helping out with the promotion of the campaign should email [email protected].
