NNUH event to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing support

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) is marking World Mental Health Day on 10 October with an event in the hospital’s East and West Atriums from 10am to 5pm aimed at raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing and highlighting the support available.

“Mental health problems affect one in four adults and one in 10 children each year so, at some stage in our lives, many of us will either experience difficulties ourselves or know someone who is,” said Gemma Lawrence, NNUH Mental Health Matron.

“We’re using the event not only to highlight the support we can offer here at the hospital, but also to showcase what’s available via community and voluntary services. We are delighted that former Norwich City footballer Cédric Anselin will be with us to talk about his own experiences with mental health, and GP Dr Richard Garrod will talk about his journey with depression.

“Our message is that it’s OK to not be OK and that there is a wide range of help available for both adults and children.”

The event is open to staff and the public and includes talks, stands and activities hosted by a wide range of organisations and individuals, covering everything from improving personal wellbeing with activities such as yoga and mindfulness to supporting people with dementia. Organisations present include Nelson’s Journey, NorLSAR, Spinning Tots, Just One Norfolk, Active Norfolk and Crossfit Cerebellum, and volunteers include Butterfly Volunteers, the Red Cross, the Settle In Service, Hospital Radio and the PAT Dogs.

The day’s main events in the Benjamin Gooch Lecture Theatre are:

10-10.45am: Former Norwich City and France U21 footballer Cedric Anselin tells his story

10.45am -12.15pm: Everyday Wellbeing workshop

12.15-1pm: Presentation from MensCraft.

13-2pm: What is the Wellbeing Service?

2-2.45pm: Dr Richard Garrod – “Shock horror… normal doctors can become mentally ill”

2.45-4.15pm: Improving Sleep workshop

4.15-5pm: Raffle draw and close

Mental Health is everyone’s health so please come and join us.