Life hasn’t been the same for a long time now; throughout the lockdowns, mass change and social distancing, we have all collectively been through a lot.

For this reason, mental health wellbeing and looking out for one another is as pivotal as ever, and there is no better time to learn more about it than #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. As the national lockdown begins to ease, there still needs to be strong support networks in place as we start to socialise more. It is also a good idea to check in on your friends and family too, check out our guide.

At size?, we are really keen on promoting Mental Health Awareness Week. Our ongoing collaboration with Manchester Mind lets us get involved with their inspiring work while helping us connect to communities around the country.

For this year’s theme, Manchester Mind has picked Nature. After a lot more time indoors, it is even more important to recognise the benefits of the great outdoors on our minds.

Sometimes, it is best to put down your phone for a little while and try to enjoy a short time outside without any distractions. Whether you are a student living in halls or you live in an inner-city apartment, it can be hard to find the time to switch off.

So, if you get the chance, google some local greenspaces or hop on public transport to a nearby trail or park. With spring well and truly underway – and summer just around the corner – it is a great time to make the most of your local nature.

To help out, we will also be venturing to Manchester, Newcastle and Cardiff, where our size? experts will be showcasing some of the best nature spots in these cities.

What’s more, to promote this year’s theme, Manchester Mind has been sharing stories about people connecting with nature during the lockdown. This included their Allotment Project, a chance for them to:

“Grow vegetables to help sustain our emergency food response and provide volunteering opportunities with enhanced support, to people with lived experience of poor mental health.”

With the help and funding from J. Parkers, Manchester Mind is creating a safe, multi-sensory garden area to act as a safe place for people who are struggling, supporting their mental health.

Throughout this week, Manchester Mind is also doing great things like working with the Manchester United Foundation to deliver 5,000 books and balls to local children.

Here, you can look at Manchester Mind’s top tips to help you make the most of nature, plus you can keep up with the progress of their sensory garden at their allotment. Also, keep checking the size? blog for more #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek content this week!