Winning Ways to Wellbeing

Heke tipu oranga, he taonga tuku iho, ka pakanga ake, aue te aiotanga, te manawanui

Translation: Persist in the battle and journey for wellbeing, it is a treasure handed down from the heavens, then comes confidence and peace.

Every year the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand coordinates Mental Health Awareness Week, celebrated by hundreds of groups, organisations and individuals nationwide. The event coincides with World Mental Health Awareness Day on 10 October, and themes are usually aligned very closely.

The aim is not just to raise awareness in the community about mental health issues, but to give people positive ways to look after their own, and others’, mental health. This year’s theme was Winning Ways to Wellbeing, and New Zealanders were encouraged to think of new ways to connect, be active, give, learn and take notice. Wellbeing is a concept that has two main elements: feeling good and functioning well.

Research by The Foresight Project outlines five ways you can support your own wellbeing and that of the world around you, including your family, friends, colleagues and the wider community.

Connect

Develop your relationships with friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours as these connections support you and enrich your life.

Be Active

Physical activity helps you to feel good so find something that you enjoy and suits your ability.

Take Notice

Be aware of the world around you and see the beauty in everyday and unusual things - reflecting on them helps you appreciate what matters to you.

Learn

Try something new or rediscover an old interest, or take on a new responsibility or challenge - learning makes you more confident and can be fun.

Give

Do something for a friend or stranger and see yourself and your happiness as linked to the wider community.