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Financial stress and summer holidays

Posted on by Vicki Wootton-Champion

Summer is a time for making memories, but the pressure to keep the kids entertained can place huge financial pressure on parents and care-givers, which can be detrimental to our mental health. With the cost-of-living pressures many of us are feeling, finding ways to enjoy the season without financial stress is more important than ever. Luckily, the UK offers a wealth of low-cost and free activities to help you create a summer full of joy and connection. Here are some budget-friendly ideas to make the most of the sunny season and spare the financial stress.

  1. Explore local parks and green spaces

The UK is home to some of the most beautiful public parks and green spaces. From sprawling countryside to urban oases, these spots are perfect for a picnic, a leisurely stroll, or even a game of frisbee.

Many parks offer free or low-cost events during the summer, such as outdoor yoga sessions, live music, or family-friendly activities.

  1. Take advantage of museums and galleries

Many museums and galleries in the UK are free to enter, making them an excellent choice for a cultural day out. Whether it’s exploring the British Museum in London, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery in Glasgow, or the National Railway Museum in York, you can immerse yourself in history, art, and science without spending a penny.

  1. Pack a picnic and hit the beach

The UK’s coastline is stunning, and a day by the sea doesn’t have to be expensive. Pack some homemade snacks, grab a beach towel, and enjoy the simplicity of sand and sea.

  1. Discover free festivals and events

Summer is festival season, and many UK towns and cities host free or low-cost community events. From street festivals to outdoor cinema screenings and local fairs, there’s often something happening nearby. Websites like Eventbrite or local council pages are great resources for finding events.

  1. Go on a wildlife adventure

Spend time connecting with nature by exploring local wildlife reserves, woodlands, or riversides.

  1. Try a DIY garden or balcony project

If you’re staying close to home, consider starting a small gardening project. Planting flowers, growing herbs, or creating a mini vegetable patch can be a fun and rewarding way to spend your time. Plus, it’s a great activity to involve kids and family members.

  1. Host a summer gathering at home

Instead of going out, invite friends or family over for a potluck BBQ or picnic in the garden. Sharing the cost of food and drinks makes hosting affordable, and you can create a relaxed, festive atmosphere with simple decorations like string lights or homemade bunting.

 

 

  1. Get creative with DIY projects

Rainy summer days don’t have to ruin the fun. Use the time to start a DIY project, like crafting decorations, upcycling old furniture, or making homemade gifts. It’s an inexpensive way to stay productive and express your creativity.

  1. Join a local library

Libraries are treasure troves of free entertainment. Beyond borrowing books, many UK libraries host free workshops, film screenings, or summer reading challenges for children. Some even lend out board games, musical instruments, or gardening tools!

Enjoying summer doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and planning, you can fill your days with activities that are enriching, relaxing, and fun. By taking advantage of the UK’s free and low-cost options, you can make the season memorable without financial stress.

 

Caring for someone who is dependant on alcohol or drugs : protecting your own mental health

Posted on by Vicki Wootton-Champion

Caring for someone who is dependant on alcohol or drugs : protecting your own mental health

 

Addiction does not just affect the addict. For the families, friends and colleagues of a person addicted to substances, it can be a wildly worrying, difficult and emotionally draining journey too.

So how can you take care of the person that you love and protect your own mental health too? In our latest blog post we take a look at how to find that balance.

You are not alone

First and foremost, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are charities, resources and support groups out there to help you (find them at the end of this article). There are many, many families that have been in a similar situation and you do not have to cope by yourself. Often simply talking to, or getting advice from someone that has been in your shoes can be incredibly beneficial. To just know that someone understands how you feel can help feelings of isolation immensely.

 

Set Boundaries

It’s ok to set boundaries, say no and take breaks when you need them. This might look like being clear about how and when you will communicate with your loved one, setting boundaries about what activities are acceptable when you are together, or just being honest about the type of support that you can offer.

 

Talk to someone that you trust

It can really help to share the load with someone that you trust, whether that is simply to offload, or whether that is to ask for their help in supporting your loved one too.

 

Seek professional help

Encouraging your loved one to seek professional help through a GP, Counsellor, or specialist organisation, is one of the best ways to help them combat their issues. However, don’t forget that the same support could help you too. If things are becoming too much, don’t be afraid to seek your own support and put your mental health first.

 

Try self-care

Self-care might be the last thing on your mind when you are worried about another person, however, finding moments for your own self-care can help you to continue to support them in the best way possible. Self-care doesn’t have to look like hours of pampering or anything extravagant. It might just be cooking yourself the meal that you love, taking a walk, or just getting enough sleep.

Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. By putting your own needs and mental health first, you will be better equipped to support your loved one.

For more information, advice and support visit:

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

0800 9177 650
help@aamail.org (email helpline)
alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

 

Adfam

adfam.org.uk

 

Addiction Family Support

0300 888 3853
addictionfamilysupport.org.uk

 

Al-Anon

0800 0086 811
helpline@al-anonuk.org.uk
al-anonuk.org.uk

 

FRANK

0300 123 6600
talktofrank.com

National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa)

0800 358 3456
helpline@nacoa.org.uk
nacoa.org.uk

 

We Are With You

wearewithyou.org.uk

 

 

 

How music can help mental health

Posted on by Vicki Wootton-Champion

How music can help mental health

Music has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, offering a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together. Beyond its entertainment value, music also holds incredible power to enhance mental health and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we explore the ways music can positively impact mental health and why it should be part of your self-care routine.

  1. Stress relief and relaxation

Listening to calming music can significantly reduce stress. Slow tempos and soothing melodies help lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and induce relaxation. Genres like classical music, ambient tracks, or nature-inspired sounds are particularly effective in creating a peaceful environment. This can be especially beneficial during high-pressure situations, like preparing for an exam or managing a busy workday.

  1. Mood enhancement

Music has a profound effect on mood. Upbeat and energetic tunes can boost feelings of happiness by triggering the release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. Conversely, melancholy songs can provide an emotional outlet, helping listeners process feelings of sadness or grief in a healthy way. Crafting playlists tailored to your emotional needs can act as a personalised form of therapy.

  1. Connection and social bonding

Music creates connection, whether through shared experiences at concerts, participation in choirs, or simply singing along with friends. Social bonds are crucial for mental health, and engaging with music in communal settings can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. This is particularly important in combating loneliness, a significant contributor to mental health challenges.

  1. Cognitive and emotional regulation

For individuals dealing with anxiety or depression, music can serve as a powerful tool for emotional regulation. Studies have shown that music therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall emotional resilience. Practicing mindfulness with music—focusing on the lyrics, rhythm, or melody—can help ground individuals in the present moment and reduce racing thoughts.

  1. Improved sleep

Sleep is critical for mental health, and music can play a role in improving its quality. Gentle, slow-paced music before bedtime has been shown to promote relaxation and ease the transition into deep sleep. Creating a nightly ritual that includes music can help signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.

  1. Boosting productivity and focus

While music is often associated with relaxation, certain types can enhance focus and productivity. Instrumental music, particularly from genres like jazz, classical, or lo-fi beats, provides a non-intrusive backdrop that can improve concentration.

 

  1. Expression and creativity

Playing an instrument, composing music, or even singing can offer a profound sense of self-expression. These creative outlets allow individuals to channel their emotions into something tangible, building a sense of accomplishment and self-discovery. Engaging with music in this way can also provide a therapeutic escape from everyday pressures.

Incorporating music into your daily life can significantly improve mental health, offering benefits ranging from stress relief to enhanced emotional well-being. Whether it’s listening, creating, or sharing, music provides a versatile and accessible way to support your mental health journey. So, put on your favourite playlist, pick up an instrument, or join a music community—you might just find the harmony your mind and soul have been seeking.