A campaign to encourage Scots to practise a positive outlook to life throughout 2018 is being led by Breathing Space, Scotland’s mental health helpline.
Research shows that positive emotions such as optimism, benefit our mental wellbeing.
The 365 Brighter Days campaign is designed to offer a year round approach to positivity and is being promoted alongside the See Me programme’s Time to Talk Day on February 1st, which is Scotland’s National Breathing Space Day.
Tony McLaren, Breathing Space National Coordinator, explained: “Life has its ups and downs and it’s sometimes really difficult seeing the positive. Looking for something positive every day helps us to develop resilience and cope better.
“Encouraging a positive mindset through simple approaches such as mindfulness, breathing techniques, exercise and positive interactions with others, is important for our wellbeing.
“Time to Talk Day on February 1st is a great way to focus on positivity through personal interactions because talking can be a positive first step for people suffering from poor mental health. The more we talk about things, the better life can be for us and Time to Talk highlights that phoning Breathing Space is a positive first step for anyone feeling low, anxious or stressed.”
Maureen Watt MSP, Minister for Mental Health, said: “The 365 Brighter Days campaign – led by NHS24’s Breathing Space helpline – is a great way to remind ourselves to see the positive in every day. This can be something as simple as spending time with friends or family.
Breathing Space are linking with See Me’s Time to Talk initiative as part of this push for positivity because the first positive thing we can do for ourselves and loved ones is finding the time to talk. Conversations have the power to change lives and for people experiencing low mood or anxiety, calling sources of support such as Breathing Space can be the positive first step.”
As 1st February is both National Breathing Space Day and See Me’s Time to Talk Day, there will be a Pop up Positivity Cafe at the Reception Hall at Walker Hall, South Beach Troon (Thursday 1st at 11am-12:30pm) hosted by Breathing Space. Pop in for coffee, cake and a chat. A Breathing Space bench will be unveiled at 11:10am just outside the hall, to kick start the ‘Brighter Days’ campaign. All are welcome to attend the cafe and photo opportunity.
Breathing Space is a free telephone service where advisors offer care, compassion and advice over the phone to anyone feeling low, depressed or anxious. If you think you need Breathing Space, the service is open evenings and weekends on 0800 83 85 87.
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