Youth voice – Five ways to wellbeing

Here we are, heading into the third year of Covid-19. 

For many young people, it is hard enough just growing up, going through puberty and navigating the teenage years, let alone living life in a global pandemic! 

Sadly, the pressures of these combined forces have had a negative impact on personal wellbeing. Many of our local youth services have experienced a significant increase in demand for providing support to young people, who are dealing with the anxiety and stress of this extended season. 

However, as we continue to live our lives constantly adapting to these changes, research shows there are five simple things we can do as part of daily life to build resilience, boost wellbeing and lower risk of developing mental health problems. 

These simple actions are known as the Five Ways to Wellbeing. It is not rocket science but merely a simple bread and butter framework to guide our daily lives and weekly rhythms, which for our young people, may help equip them to navigate this ever changing season. 

• Connect: Strengthening relationships and feeling close to and valued by others is critical to boosting wellbeing. As a young person, how can you invest in old or new friendships in order to build a positive and supportive community around you?

• Be active: Being physically active improves physical health and can improve mood, decrease stress, depression and anxiety. Getting involved in a sport and a team environment can be a game changer. Can you give a new sport a go or get out into the beautiful outdoors and enjoy a walk or a run?

• Give! Carrying out acts of kindness, whether small or large, can increase happiness, life satisfaction and general sense of wellbeing. Giving provides purpose in loving or serving a friend, classmate, colleague or stranger. Can you perhaps bake cookies for your neighbour or give your time to help at a charity shop? 

• Take notice: Paying more attention to the present moment, to thoughts and feelings and to the world around, boosts our wellbeing. Especially today, we are often so busy looking at our screens and being responsive to the constant ringing of our phones, that we forget to be fully present and embrace the moment. Can you turn off the phone and switch off the laptop? And maybe start a journal? Take time to smell the roses

• Keep learning: Being curious and seeking out new experiences positively stimulates the brain. Can you attempt to learn a new language or try surfing? It may be a step outside of your comfort zone, but it will be rewarding to give it a go and grow!