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This World Mental Health Day, Winchester Youth Counselling (WYC) encourages you to take a moment for yourself by stepping outside and embracing the beauty of the natural world. Nature has long been recognised for its calming and restorative benefits, offering a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. Whether you find peace in a local park, along the River Itchen, or in the green spaces surrounding Winchester, like the South Downs, we encourage you to step outside, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in nature.

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Spending time in nature can do wonders for mental health. Studies show that being outdoors can reduce anxiety, lift your mood, and promote a sense of calm. It’s a simple yet effective way to step away from the pressures of everyday life and take time to reconnect with yourself. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a break, spending even a few minutes outside can be revitalising.

 

Submit Your Photos for a Nature-Themed Display

To celebrate this connection, we invite you to capture a moment of nature that speaks to you. Whether it’s a majestic tree, a tree bathed in sunlight, autumn leaves scattered on the ground, a field of autumn or other wonderful colours, or a peaceful riverbank, take a photograph that represents your experience. If possible, use a high-resolution phone or camera, as we would love to showcase some of these beautiful images in a special display.

We are inviting submissions of your nature-inspired photographs to be emailed to admin@winchyc.org. A selection of these will be transformed into canvas displays, which will be placed around the WYC building, creating a soothing environment for young people seeking support. Your photos can help bring the calm and healing power of nature into our space, giving a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who visits.

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Through this initiative, we hope to encourage everyone to take a mindful pause and enjoy the natural world around them. By participating and submitting your photos, you are also helping to inspire others to recognise the positive effect nature can have on their mental well-being.

 

Supporting Young People in Winchester

WYC is dedicated to supporting young people aged 11-25 across the Winchester District. We offer free, confidential counselling to help young people manage issues like stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and more. No matter what you’re going through, we are here to listen and provide the help you need.

Our services also extend to parents and carers, with resources and guidance to help them support the young people in their lives. With Parents Support Groups and Parents Support Programmes included in the services we offer, we aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for everyone who reaches out to us. Take a look at our Resource Hub to find a wealth of activities and support for 11-25 year olds and Parent/Carers.

 

Get Involved!

This World Mental Health Day, let’s take a step towards better mental well-being by connecting with nature. Submit your favourite nature photographs by Friday 8th November 2024, for a chance to have them featured in our display.

Remember, mental health is a journey, and taking time to care for yourself is an important step. If you or someone you know needs support, please don’t hesitate to contact Winchester Youth Counselling. Together, we can make mental health a priority, not just on World Mental Health Day, but every day.

For more information about our services, visit www.winchesteryouthcounselling.org or call us on 01962 820444.

By taking care of our mental health, we build the foundation for a stronger, more resilient future.

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