King’s Lynn 8:56 Foundation, Lynn News’ charity of the year, raises awareness during Mental Health Week

The 8:56 Foundation, the West Norfolk-based men’s wellbeing organisation, will soon be raising additional awareness during Mental Health Awareness Week.

Now in its 23rd year, the campaign runs from May 15-21 and is organised by the Mental Health Foundation.

This year, the theme focuses on Anxiety, and across the UK people are encouraged to get involved by sharing their experiences of anxiety and the things that can help with the hashtag #ToHelpMyAnxiety.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems we can face.

According to a recent mental health survey carried out by the Mental Health Foundation, which focussed on stress, anxiety and hopelessness over personal finances, a quarter of adults stated they felt so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they want to do most of the time.

Almost two-thirds of adults felt this way, at least some of the time.

On a positive note, anxiety can become easier to manage.

As part of the campaign, the 8:56 Foundation and the Mental Health Foundation will also be publishing guidance on how everyone can manage and improve feelings of anxiety, preventing them from developing into a more serious mental health problem.

Adam Whittaker, committee representative, 8:56 Foundation, said: ”We can all experience anxiety, but occasionally it can spiral out of hand and cause mental health issues.

“However, there are steps we can take to control our worry and keep it from taking over.

“For instance, doing breathing exercises, exercising, talking to a reliable friend, or keeping a journal.

“We hope that residents throughout West Norfolk will join in and support our efforts to normalise conversations about anxiety and mental health.

“Hopefully this week will give individuals greater courage to discuss their experiences with anxiety and how it affects them.

“Most importantly, we want people to know what they can do to manage their anxiety and what other resources are offered through the 8:56 Foundation and our partner organisations.”