MIND HEY launch new campaign to raise awareness of the cost of living crisis’ impact on mental health 

As Mental Health Awareness Week begins, Hull KR stand with local mental health charity Hull and East Yorkshire Mind as they launch its new campaign aimed at raising awareness of the impact that the cost of living crisis is having on people's mental health.

With the cost of living continuing to rise, many people are struggling to make ends meet, which in turn can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Hull and East Yorkshire Mind's new campaign aims to highlight this issue and encourage people to seek help if they are struggling. It will also focus on encouraging people to look after themselves. 

The campaign will promote a range of resources and support services, as well as a range of tools and techniques that can help those who are struggling with their mental health.

The charity say that whilst they cannot fix the cost of living crisis, they can help people to cope. As part of the campaign, the charity has released a series of tips help local people to look after their mental health while struggling with money worries:

• Acknowledge your feelings: It's normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even embarrassed when you're struggling financially. Acknowledge your feelings and try not to judge yourself too harshly.
• Take care of your physical health: Good physical health can help support good mental health. Try to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.
• Stay connected: Money worries can be isolating, but it's important to stay connected with friends and family. Reach out to loved ones for support or join a support group.
• Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help you stay present and calm. Try practicing mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.
• Seek help if needed: If your money worries are causing significant distress, it's important to seek help. Consider talking to your GP, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind or organisations such as Citizens Advice.
• Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals for your finances, such as creating a budget or paying off a small debt. Celebrate your accomplishments along the way.
• Focus on what you can control: It's easy to feel overwhelmed when you're struggling financially. Focus on the things you can control, such as your spending habits, rather than things outside of your control.

Speaking about the campaign, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Jack Moore said: "The cost of living crisis is having a real impact on people's mental health. Many people are struggling to keep up with rising costs, and this can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and worry.

'We want to raise awareness of this issue and let people know that there is help and support available. Whilst we know that we cannot fix the cost of living crisis, we can ensure that we are here to help people cope."

The campaign will run throughout Mental Health Awareness Week which will run from 15-21 May 2023. Individuals are encouraged to share Hull and East Yorkshire Mind’s posts on social media to let friends, family members and colleagues know that they are not alone.

For more information about Hull and East Yorkshire Mind's cost of living campaign and the support services available, please visit the Hull and East Yorkshire Mind website on www.heymind.org.uk or contact their Information Line on 01482 240133.