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Healthy Mind

Healthy Mind

Need to Talk

Need to Talk?

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or lonely?

Remember, you don’t have to face difficult emotions alone. Reach out to these places for help and support:

Black Country
Mental Health Helpline

Papyrus
Hopeline 247

Samaritans

Kaleidoscope-
Shout 85258

Remember

There is help available, and reaching out is a
sign of strength. You are not alone.

Better Mental Health and
Wellbeing - Local Services
and Activities for Adults

Better Mental Health and
Wellbeing – Local Services
and Activities for Adults

Better mental health for all is one of our priorities. As part of our commitment to this, we have funded a range of activities and services for adults living in Sandwell. These projects will change over time to meet all of the needs of people living in Sandwell. Here you will find an overview of these activities and services.

Emergency contact


Need to talk? Call- 0800 008 6516

Physical activity and mental health

Proud Baggies

Football training sessions and tournaments for the LGBTQ+ community. All level of ability welcome.

Oldbury United FC

Oldbury United FC’s Emotional Wellbeing and Education Scholarship supports young people aged 12 – 25 years from the Black, Black British, African and Caribbean community through a variety of weekly sessions at Portway Lifestyle Centre.

Email admin@oldburyunited.co.uk or visit their webite using the link below:

Changes

Changes programme to support health and wellbeing of parents to guide you through your parenting journey.

Activities for specific communities

Tough enough to care

Provides mental health support for friend. It offers free advice and
support for men living or working in Sandwell.

Groundwork

Cook Together Eat together – cooking, socialising, and healthy eating project for the over 55’s to meet and connect with new people and improve mental health and wellbeing.

Kaleidoscope Plus Group: Carers Project

Socialising with other carers, wellbeing activities, support, advice & guidance for carers in a range of community venues.

Options for life

Holistic Yoga and Creative Therapies project supporting individuals with learning disabilities, autism and PMLD. Providing yoga, art and creativity workshops, physical activity, and movement to address and support mental health and wellbeing.

Sandwell Visually Impaired: (Support, Empowerment and Experience)

Project to support people who are blind or have a visual impairment providing support including befriending, advocacy and group support sessions. A safe place to talk, listen and build confidence. Shared experiences and specialist information on mental & physical health and how to access support.

SDCA

Positive Deaf- community provision for people who are deaf or with hearing impairment. Support, advice, guidance and information from a Wellbeing Coach and opportunities to meet others and take part in activities to improve health and wellbeing at a Wellbeing Sign  Cafe.

Get in touch by calling 07885 913225 or emailing info@sdca.co.uk 

Crossroads Caring for Carers

weekly peer support group for carers within the LGBTQ+ community.

Friar Park Millennium Centre

weekly peer support network for the LGBTQ+ community. Weekly activities include social, sports, crafts, chat and peer support and signposting.

Birmingham LGBT

1:1 counselling service available to Sandwell LGBTQ+ community at Holloway Circus in Birmingham.

Wolverhampton LGBT

1:1 counselling service available to Sandwell LGBTQ+ community at Pride House in Wolverhampton.

Beat it

Relax & Chat project supporting people with a disability or long-term health condition. Sound Relaxation sessions take place in community venues, to provide relief from everyday stress and self-help activities to help participants to manage anxiety and unhelpful thoughts.

Parents and carers and their families

Changes Antenatal

Changes programme to support health and wellbeing of parents to guide you through your parenting journey.

Parents and Families

Range of free activities for families with babies, toddlers or pre-school children including Splash and Chat, Zumbini and Diddi Dance.

Proud Baggies

Football training sessions and tournaments for the LGBTQ+ community. All level of ability welcome.

Peer Support

Crossroads Caring for Carers

weekly peer support group for carers within the LGBTQ+ community.

Friar Park Millennium Centre

weekly peer support network for the LGBTQ+ community. Weekly activities include social, sports, crafts, chat and peer support and signposting.

Wolverhampton LGBT

1:1 counselling service available to Sandwell LGBTQ+ community at Pride House in Wolverhampton.

Learn more about your own or your loved one’s mental health

Kaleidoscope Plus
Group Training Courses

The Hub offers support to you personally or if you are concerned about a family member or friend.

The Recovery College

The Recovery College offers a range of online and face to face courses to learn about health and wellbeing. The courses aim to increase your knowledge and skills to look after yourself or a loved one.

Free Online Suicide Prevention Training

Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA) offer a range of FREE online training courses to teach you the skills and confidence to have a potentially life-saving conversation with someone you are worried about.
ZSA training is also available in British Sign Language (BSL).

One-to-One support:

Bearwood Community Hub

A Listening Ear – Free coaching service to off load in a confidential environment and learn coping mechanisms. This project will also signpost to other support provisions which are available.

Birmingham LGBT

1:1 counselling service available to Sandwell LGBTQ+ community at Holloway Circus in Birmingham.

Wolverhampton LGBT

1:1 counselling service available to Sandwell LGBTQ+ community at Pride House in Wolverhampton.

Free Online Suicide Prevention Training

Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA) offer a range of FREE online training courses to teach you the skills and confidence to have a potentially life-saving conversation with someone you are worried about.
ZSA training is also available in British Sign Language (BSL).

Better Mental Health and Wellbeing – Local Services and Activities for Children and Young People

There are many services and projects in Sandwell to help the emotional health of children and young people. We use the i-Thrive model to show how kids can get different support as their needs change. Many children do well with help from friends, family, teachers, and others, but sometimes they need extra help. Watch the video and look at the diagram below to learn more about i-Thrive in Sandwell and how it can help you and your family.

Emergency contact Need to talk? Call- 0800 008 6516
Play Video
Just Youth
Sandwell Family Hubs
Thriving those whose current need is support to maintain mental wellbeing through effective prevention and promotion strategies

A directory of services and projects that can support children, young people and their families in Sandwell.



You can also search the online version of this directory under the ‘Mental Health Services Directory’ tab.

Wellbeing Booklet

Shape have created this useful Wellbeing Booklet based on the 5 Ways to Wellbeing to support children and young people to thrive.

Suicide Prevention

If you need to talk to someone urgently about your mental health, or you’re concerned about a family member, call NHS 111 and select option 2 to be placed in direct contact with a mental health professional in your area. The number is free to call from a landline or mobile, even if you have no credit left.

Play Video

Crisis Support

For immediate support, please contact:

Black Country Healthcare Foundation Trust 24/7 Helpline: 0800 0086 516

If there is any immediate risk to life, contact the emergency services by calling 999. 

Black Country Support
After Suicide Support

Provided by Rethink Mental Health, this service offers:

Opening Hours:

Monday – Friday: 10 am – 6 pm (Evening appointments available)

Saturday – Sunday: Appointments can be pre-arranged

Contact:

mail: blackcountrysupportaftersuicide@rethink.org Call: 0800 008 6516 Webpage: Black Country Support After Suicide

Samaritans

Kaleidoscope – Shout 85258

A free, confidential 24/7 text messaging service:

Black Country
Mental Health Helpline

For immediate advice and support:

Papyrus Hopeline 24/7

For children and young people under 35 experiencing thoughts of suicide:

Kaleidoscope Sanctuary Hub

A free, confidential 24/7 text messaging service:

Opening Hours:

Monday – Friday: 6 pm – 11 pm | Saturday & Sunday: 12 (noon) – 11 pm

Free Suicide Prevention Training in Sandwell

Sandwell offers free Suicide Prevention Training by PAPYRUS for those working and volunteering in the six towns. To secure your place, scan the QR code or
email englandnorth@papyrus-uk.org.

Scan the QR code

Remember

Remember, help is available, and you are not alone.

Healthy Sleep

Healthy Sleep

Sleep is not just for resting; it is very important for your health and well-being. Knowing why good sleep matters and its benefits is key to staying healthy.

Why Sleep Matters

Promotes Growth

Eliminates Toxins

Healing and Repair

Boosts Immune System

Recommended Sleep Duration

Specific Benefits of Quality Sleep

Knowing why good sleep is important and recognising when you are not getting enough sleep is the first step to better health. Add healthy sleep habits to your routine to enjoy the many benefits of good sleep.


Building a Healthy Sleep Routine

A consistent sleep routine is the cornerstone of a good night’s sleep. Establishing healthy habits contributes to overall well-being and ensures you wake up feeling refreshed and energised.

Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Napping Guidelines

Keep a Sleep Diary

Exposure to Natural Light:

Healthy Lifestyle for Better Sleep

Diet

Limit Alcohol and Smoking

Regular Exercise

Building a Healthy Sleep Routine

Winding Down Before Bed

Relaxing Activities

Warm Bath

Avoid Going to Bed Hungry or Full

Watch Your Beverage Intake

Limit Screen Time

Creating a Sleep Sanctuary

Optimal Sleep Environment

Comfortable Bedding

Dealing with Sleep Struggles

Addressing Insomnia

Managing Worries

Dealing with Sleep Struggles

Building a sleep routine takes time, but the benefits are worth the effort. Prioritise your sleep hygiene to ensure a restful night and improved overall well-being. If sleep difficulties persist, consider consulting with a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

While occasional sleep disturbances are normal, persistent poor sleep may indicate an underlying medical condition. Knowing when to seek help from a doctor is crucial for addressing potential issues. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s advisable to consult your GP:

Signs of Potential Sleep Disorders

Lack of Energy Despite Sufficient Sleep

Common Medical Conditions Linked
to Poor Sleep:

Iron Deficiency Anaemia, B12, or Folate Deficiency

Physically Enacting Dreams

Excessive Sleepiness During Activities

Collapsing During Strong Emotions

Disruptive Snoring

Sleepwalking

Hypothyroidism

Sleep Apnoea

Coeliac Disease

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Diabetes

Restless Leg Syndrome

Weight-Related Issues

Cancer Treatments

If you suspect an underlying medical condition, your doctor may conduct blood tests or provide a questionnaire to assess your sleep patterns. Seeking medical advice is essential to identify and address potential issues early on.

Remember, quality sleep is a vital component of overall health, and addressing sleep difficulties promptly can lead to improved wellbeing.

Welcoming a new born into the family brings immense joy, but it also comes with sleep challenges. Here are some practical tips for new parents to ensure better sleep for both you and your baby:

Sleep When Your Baby Sleeps

Share Night-time Responsibilities

Ask for Support

Sleep Hygiene for Parents

Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment for Your Baby

Help Your Baby Develop Good Sleep Habits

Sleep When Your Baby Sleeps

Look After Your Health

Remember Sleep Patterns Change

Seek Professional Help if Needed

Remember

Taking care of yourself is crucial for effective parenting. Prioritise your well-being, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed. For further information and support,

Hormones play a crucial role in various aspects of women’s health, including sleep patterns. Understanding the hormonal changes during different life stages can help address sleep challenges that women may experience.

Menstruation

Tip: Exercise before your period, avoid caffeine and nicotine, and consult your GP for potential solutions, such as birth control pills.

Pregnancy

Tip: Elevate your head while sleeping to alleviate pregnancy-related reflux and snoring.

Menopause

Tip: Consult your GP about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms. Manage hot flashes with lifestyle changes and consider mindfulness and breathing exercises.

Sleep, women and hormones

As with all sleep concerns, establishing a good sleep routine and maintaining proper sleep hygiene are crucial. If you’re facing persistent sleep issues, consider incorporating the recommended tips for better sleep. It’s important to consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice tailored to your specific situation.

Recognise the impact of external factors, such as stress, on sleep is crucial for overall wellbeing. If you find that stressors in your life are affecting your sleep, consider the following steps:

Seeking Mental Health Guidance

Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Sleep Station and NHS Services

Consulting Your GP

Black Country Mental Health Helpline

Remember

Seeking help is an important step towards improving your sleep and overall mental wellbeing. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the available resources and professionals for help that suits you. 

Stress

Stress

At Healthy Sandwell, we understand the significant impact that stress can have on your overall well-being. Stress management is a key component of maintaining a healthy and balanced life. This page is designed to provide you with valuable insights, practical tips, and resources to empower you in your journey towards stress reduction.

Understanding Stress

Stress is a natural response to life’s challenges, and it affects everyone at some point. However, chronic stress can have negative effects on your physical and mental health. Recognising the signs and understanding the sources of stress are essential steps in effectively managing it.



Signs of Stress

Physical Symptoms

  • Headaches
  • Muscle tension
  • Fatigue
  • Sleep disturbances

Emotional Signs

  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Feeling overwhelmed

Identifying Stressors

Understanding the specific factors contributing to your stress is crucial. Common stressors include work pressures, financial concerns, relationship issues, and major life changes. Identifying these triggers is the first step towards creating a targeted stress management plan.

Practical Tips for Stress
Management

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:

Incorporate practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga into your daily routine.

Time
Management

Prioritize tasks and set realistic goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Healthy Lifestyle

Choices

Maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and ensure adequate sleep.

Social
Support

Share your feelings with trusted friends or family members. A strong support network can provide valuable perspectives and assistance.

Seek Professional
Help

 If stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapy and counselling can provide effective tools for managing stress.

Healthy Lifestyle

Choices

Maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and ensure adequate sleep.

Resources for
Additional Support

Black Country Mental Health Helpline:

Available 24/7 at 0800 008 6516 for immediate support and
guidance.

Healthy Sandwell:

Access mental health guidance and resources to support your overall well-being.

The Sleep Charity:

Additional tips for better sleep and overall well-being.

Remember

You have the power to take control of your wellbeing. By implementing practical strategies and accessing available resources, you can effectively manage stress and enhance your overall quality of life. Explore the links and information provided to embark on your journey towards a healthier, stress-free lifestyle. Your well-being matters, and we are here to support you every step of the way.



Understanding Addiction

Understanding Addiction

At Healthy Sandwell, we understand the intricate relationship between mental health and addictive behaviours. This page is designed to provide insights, guidance, and resources to empower individuals in understanding, addressing, and overcoming addictive patterns while prioritising mental
well-being.
Addictive behaviours often arise from many different factors. Recognising the connection between addiction and mental health is crucial for developing effective strategies for recovery.

Common Addictive Behaviours

Substance Abuse

Behavioural Addictions

alcohol

The Link Between Addiction and Mental Health

Addiction and mental health often go hand in hand. Individuals may turn to substances or behaviours as a way to cope with underlying mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Conversely, addictive behaviours can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mental health challenges.

Signs and Symptoms

Understanding the signs of addictive behaviours and their impact on mental health is the first step towards seeking help. Common indicators include:

Taking Steps Towards Recovery

Seek Professional Help:

A mental health professional can provide personalized assessment and treatment plans, addressing both addiction and mental health concerns.

Holistic Approaches:

Incorporating holistic approaches such as mindfulness, meditation, and exercise can contribute to overall well-being.

Support Groups

Joining support groups can provide a sense of community and shared experiences, fostering a supportive environment for recovery.

Taking Steps Towards Recovery

Resources for Support

Black Country Mental Health Helpline

Reach out for immediate support and guidance, available 24/7 at 0800 008 6516.

Healthy Sandwell

Access mental health resources and guidance for a comprehensive approach to wellbeing.

Check out our pages on:

Breaking the Cycle

Recovery from addictive behaviours is a journey, and seeking help is a courageous first step. By understanding the the link between addiction and mental health and accessing available resources, individuals can embark on a path towards healing, resilience, and lasting recovery. Remember, you are not alone, and support is available. Start your journey towards a healthier, more balanced life today.

Internet Addiction

We recognize the importance of fostering a healthy relationship with technology. This page is designed to provide insights, practical tips, and resources to help individuals understand and manage internet addiction for overall wellbeing.

Understanding Internet Addiction

Internet addiction, or problematic internet use, refers to excessive or compulsive use of the internet that interferes with daily life. It can manifest in various forms, including:

Social Media Addiction

Online Gaming Addiction

Cybersex Addiction

Information Overload

Signs and Symptoms

Excessive time spent on social media platforms, impacting real-life relationships and activities.

Loss of Control

Neglect of Responsibilities

Escapism

Withdrawal Symptoms

Impact on Mental Health

Internet addiction can have significant implications for mental health, contributing to:

Anxiety and Depression

Social Isolation

Sleep Disturbances

Tips for Managing Internet Addiction

Set Boundaries

Establish specific times for internet use and create designated tech-free zones in your home.

Digital Detox

Periodically disconnect from the internet to recharge and focus on offline activities.

Seek Support

Talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional about your concerns and seek support.

Time Management

Use productivity tools to manage time spent online and set limits on certain activities.

Resources for Support

Black Country Mental Health Helpline:

Access immediate support and guidance, available 24/7 at 0800 008 6516.

Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous

Offer free online meetings for people who are struggling with their social media and/ or internet usage. They are all online (via zoom) meetings so people can access virtually and meetings are available in a range of languages!

Empowering Digital Wellbeing

Balancing the benefits of the internet with mindful usage is essential for overall wellbeing. By recognizing the signs of internet addiction, setting boundaries, and accessing available resources, individuals can foster a healthier and more balanced relationship with technology. Remember, you have the power to take control and create a digital environment that enhances, rather than hinders, your life.

5 Ways to Wellbeing

5 Ways to Wellbeing

Wellbeing is not just a goal; it’s something we work on every day by feeling good and doing well. Sandwell’s 5 Ways to Wellbeing gives easy tips for daily activities that make us feel happier and more fulfilled.

Connect

Building and maintaining strong connections with others is essential for wellbeing. Social interactions can provide support, reduce stress and contribute to a sense of belonging.

Be Active

Physical activity is not only good for the body but also for the mind. Find enjoyable ways to stay active and incorporate movement into your daily routine.

Take Notice

Being mindful and paying attention to the present moment can enhance wellbeing. Take notice of your surroundings, thoughts and feelings.

Keep Learning