Over 150 people join us for Mental Health Bootcamp

Over 150 members of the public flocked to the St Andrew’s main building on Wednesday (10 May), to find out how they can lead mentally healthier lives.

Organised by St Andrew’s private therapy consultancy clinic – an outpatient service which offers assessments and treatments following a GP referral – the Mental Health Bootcamp gave attendees the opportunity to find out how motivation, exercise and nutrition can all pay a part in improving your mental health. The event coincided with Mental Health Awareness Week, which aims to break the stigma around mental health and encourage people to talk about it.

Natalie Jennings, Deputy Director of Nursing and Physical Healthcare for St Andrew’s, explained: “Mental health is personal to every individual, and most people experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives. Sometimes people develop anxiety issues which can be managed by undertaking exercise and sessions like those on offer here. Other times, people need some additional support and a different pathway.”

Natalie continued: “On a basic level, paying attention to the amount of sleep you get, eating healthily, taking physical exercise – getting outside and taking a walk for example, working to have healthy relationships and taking time to unwind, will all have a positive effect on your mental health. More generally, the advice is that if you feel you need help, it’s ok to say so.  Find someone you trust, talk to your GP or access your community services.  There is support if you feel you need it.”

The Mental Health Bootcamp also gave attendees the chance to try out yoga, with a class led by yoga instructor Paul Thomson. Tom Percival, a journalist from BBC Radio Northampton took the opportunity to get involved, trying out some poses and breathing exercises. While in attendance, Tom interviewed some of the St Andrew’s team and members of the public, and his interview has been broadcast on BBC Radio Northampton. Click here to listen again (the segment starts at 1 hour 40 mins, with more at 2 hours 41 mins approximately).

Attendees had the opportunity to talk about mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders and sleep problems. Mindfulness taster sessions were also on offer, as well as stands from Relate, Mind, Trilogy Gyms, Workbridge and Daily Bread.

To find out more about St Andrew’s private consultancy service, click here. For some top tips around mental health, download our free 'The Little Book of Mental Resilience'.