Mental wellbeing

Use this guide to find information on how to stay mentally well, and see what services Lambeth has to offer when you are struggling.

Your wellbeing

It might be time to look for support if:

  • you are feeling flat
  • you are feeling unusually low
  • you are overwhelmed by everything around you
  • you have trouble sleeping or eating
  • you have more bad days than good ones 
  • your mood is starting to affect your daily life 

Remember that you are not alone and that we all feel this way sometimes. Speaking to a trusted friend or family member can help you feel listened to and supported.

Your GP practice can also offer help and advice. If you’re a young person you can also speak to your teacher, tutor or student welfare team. 

If you are concerned you might not be feeling in top shape you can take a quick online test to help you understand what’s going on:  

If you want more information on mental health, or are concerned about someone else, you can get help and resources on the NHS Free Your Mind website.

For help with mild mental health issues such as mild depression, anxiety, panic attacks and traumatic memories, visit the Lambeth Talking Therapies website.

Useful tips for small changes that can help you feel better

Connect

Connect with people around you, with friends, family, colleagues and neighbours. Anything from a cup of tea with a friend, to a nice small interaction with the bus driver can boost your (and their) wellbeing. You can also look for a group in your area running activities you might be interested in. Visit the Thriving Communities website to find local groups.

Be active

Being active doesn’t need to be strenuous exercise or going to the gym. Simply go for a walk or run. Step outside, cycle, play a game, garden, dance; exercise makes us feel good. Take a stroll in one of Lambeth’s brilliant parks or join a walking group like the South Bank Ramblers.

You can also visit one of our many leisure centres across the borough.

Take Notice

Take notice of the things around you, and be present in the moment. Being more engaged in the present moment can lead to a richer experience of the things that might otherwise pass us by while we are wrapped up in thoughts about the past or thinking or worrying about what we are doing next. You can find more tips on mindfulness on the NHS website.

Keep learning

Try something new, rediscover an old interest, sign up for that course, take on a different responsibility at work. Read a book, fix a bike, learn to play an instrument or try your hand at a new recipe. Learning new things will make you more confident as well as being fun. Here are a few examples of wellbeing activities you can try.

Give 

Doing good for others is a great place to start to feel good ourselves. Do something nice for a friend or a stranger, thank someone, or smile. Volunteer your time at a local community group. Kindness can go a long way in improving your wellbeing and building a stronger community around you. Find out more about volunteering in the community. 

Further information

For further information on wellbeing you can look at these helpful sites: