Mental Health Awareness week is Monday 18th May – Sunday 24th May 2020. In response to COVID-19, The Mental Health Foundation, organisers of Mental Health Awareness Week, changed the theme to: ‘Kindness’.
Kindness is something that all ages can understand, and research shows that it can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, strengthen our friendships, and help people to feel happy and healthy. Kindness has contributed towards many good deeds during these uncertain times we are facing.
‘The Power of Kindness’ is our brand new, interactive video specifically designed for young people this Mental Health Awareness Week. Watch the video and then use the discussion points below:
Introduction
Discussion Points:
- Can you think of a time when kindness strengthened one of your friendships?
- Can you think of a time when an act of kindness made you happy?
- Can you think of a time when you were worried, and someone was kind to you?
Kindness idea one: Say thank you.
Discussion Points:
- What did you last say thank you for?
- How do you feel when people say thank you to you?
- Is there someone you would like to say thank you to?
Kindness idea two: Offer to help someone.
Discussion Points:
- Is there anyone you would like to offer help to?
- Can you think of a time when someone helped you?
- Can you think of a time when you were helpful?
Kindness idea three: Write a kind letter
Discussion Points:
- Is there someone you would like to write a kind letter to?
- How do you think someone would feel if they received a kind letter?
- Can you think of something to say thank you for in the letter?
‘The Power of Kindness’ is an excellent place to start discussing mental health. If you’re looking for other ways to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week, you can access our wellbeing resources here.
Mental Health Awareness Week is a great time to open up the conversation about how young people are feeling. In our Mental Health and Wellbeing Workshops for schools, we understand that young people want to share their ideas for improving their mental health and wellbeing.
Leading with kindness is at the heart of everything we do at OpenView Education, and is a key message we also put forward in our Anti-Bullying and Internet Safety Workshops and Training.
Talking about wellbeing is key to positive mental health, so use ‘The Power of Kindness’ to begin the conversation.
Looking for further support? Access the resources available in our Homeschooling Hub.
