Wellbeing
Welcome
Welcome to the Wellbeing section of our Employee Zone.
the information in this section is useful for all aspects of wellbeing and we encourage you to visit the sections and hope that you find the information and links useful.
Bereavement Support and Counselling
It is acknowledged that some of us will have been affected by the loss of a loved one. Detailed below are some links and contact details for some of the services that may be able to support and help you through the early days of a bereavement and what you might expect to experience in the days ahead including offering some practical advice.
- NHS inform
- NHSGGC Bereavement Information
- CRUSE info@crusescotland.org.uk(link sends e-mail) call 0845 600 2227
- REACH Counselling Service - REACH Community Health Project offer a bilingual one-to-one private and confidential counselling service in a language that suits you whilst understanding your religious and cultural sensitivities.
You can self refer by calling 0141 423 2289/2894
Emotional Wellbeing & Resilience
It’s OK not to feel OK
It's is okay to feel stressed or anxious.
This is entirely normal, and it is highly likely that many of your colleagues, family and friends will be feeling the same way.
National Wellbeing Hub
Scottish Government launched a National Wellbeing Hub for health and social care workers. The digital platform is to help health and social care workers look after their physical and mental health.
The National Wellbeing Hub , it has been developed with PRoMIS, a collaboration between Scotland’s two specialist psychological services, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Anchor Centre service and NHS Lothian’s Rivers Centre.
The hub is the first of its kind in the UK and its content has been created by trauma and other specialists in Scotland. Its launch follows the £3.8 million extra funding announced in March to increase the capacity of NHS 24’s mental health helpline services and expand digital therapies.
Specifically tailored to support the challenges being faced by everyone in health and social care, the hub will provide advice on self-care and personal resilience to help users to recognise their own ‘warning signs’. Comprehensive information about services and resources available at national and local level within NHS Boards, Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs) and local authorities will also be available.
This Hub is part of the Scottish Government’s wider work on support mental well-being and complements the new mental health Clear Your Head campaign which launched on 21 April to provide advice and support to help people cope.
Dealing with Isolation and Loneliness
Social Isolation and feelings of loneliness can affect anyone. It’s important are aware of your psychological wellbeing as well as your physical health.
There are some things you can do when feeling lonely that might help you connect to what matters and who matters to you:
- Think about times you have felt most connected with other people before – who was it and what was most helpful about it? How can you take action to repeat this?
- Reach out to people by phone or text message; at the start of each week consider making a list of people that you will contact. If you have access to social media, this can be a valuable additional way to keep in touch with family, friends and work colleagues
- Find things you enjoy and try to think of ways to share these with others
- If you know someone who is self-isolating or shielding, contact them by telephone to offer a chat and to ask if they need anything brought to them. If you know a person who lives alone and who has no access to a telephone, you might find it helpful to ask them if they have what they need, taking account of current physical distancing guidance
- If you know someone who is caring for a vulnerable person, check in with them to see if they need any practical help, or would just like to chat
- We all have a part to play in supporting each other. Times of crisis can be a good time to make connections to our neighbours and wider communities. Don’t be afraid to offer or ask for help if you need it.
NHS Inform have produced a ‘5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing' resource which includes advice on staying connected.
Resilience
Being resilient doesn’t mean that we’re unaffected by the adversity we encounter in life. Instead, resilience refers to the ability to recover, and this ability to "bounce back" depends on the balance between the demands that are made on us and the resources we have available at any given time.
Have a think and/or talk to someone you trust to see if there are any demands that can be reduced, either at work or at home. And what alternative or additional resources might sustain you during this difficult time?
Try to keep things in balance as best you can. Please take care of yourself and make use of the support on offer.
Stress - What is Stress?
“Stress is the feeling of being under too much mental or emotional pressure”, NHS Choices
These pressures can come from a number of different sources including work and relationships, and pressure can turn into stress when people feel they cannot cope. People have different ways of reacting to pressure, so a situation that feels stressful to one person may be motivating to someone else. Stress can affect anyone.
How do you recognise stress?
There are many symptoms of stress, but not everyone who is feeling stressed will experience all of them.
They include:
- Feeling tense
- Feeling irritable
- Can’t be bothered
- Tearful
- Insomnia
- Having no time
- No energy
- Drinking more alcohol, smoking more, using recreational drugs
- Unable to concentrate
- Lack of confidence
- Dizziness
- Colds
- Diarrhoea/constipation.
Dealing with Stress - Coping Strategies
Always speak to your GP if you are concerned about your health.
- Take a look at your work/life balance
- Make time to relax
- Keep physically active
- Eat well – have a healthy breakfast, eat regularly, and plenty of fruit and vegetables
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Be careful with caffeine intake particularly before bed time
- Talk to others about how you are feeling
- Help others
- Get involved and make a contribution – volunteer
- Make time to meet friends and family
- Plan fun
- Learn a new skill
- Take breaks and go for a short walk
- Ask for help
- Accept things you cannot change.
Useful Websites
Steps for Stress a Scottish Government website that provides valuable information on stress.
NHS Inform website for information on stress.
NHS GGC Guide to coping with stress.
Mind who provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
Self care
Self care is important at this time, we should make sure that we take time for ourselves. Practicing emotional first aid will support us with this and some tips for this are below:
Mindfulness
The NHS describe mindfulness as it involving sitting silently and paying attention to thoughts, sounds, the sensations of breathing or parts of the body, bringing your attention back whenever the mind starts to wander. Yoga and tai-chi can also help with developing awareness of your breathing.
There is more information to support you in practising mindfulness in the documents section.
EDAMH
East Dunbartonshire Association for Mental Health is a local voluntary sector organisation and charity which provides community based support services throughout East Dunbartonshire.
Eat Better, Feel Better
What we eat is very important as it not only affects our physical health, but what we eat may also affect the way we feel.
Improving your diet may help to:
- improve your mood
- give you more energy
- help you think more clearly.
Click here to Watch How to manage your mood with food - 8 handy tips
During these strange times, there may be greater temptation to reach for high calorie, sugary, comfort foods.
Some other useful links are:
Employee Assistance Programme
As part of our occupational health provision, employees have access to a free 24 hour confidential helpline/support service ‘Time for Talking’. This service offers a wide range of support on a variety of topics to meet individual employee needs including access to self-help resources and sign posting.
The contact details for employees looking for immediate support are as follows:
- Telephone: 0800 9703980
- Email: admin@timefortalking.co.uk
- Time for Talking website
- Live Web Chat: Accessed via website. Password: TfTnow (case sensitive).
Alternatives to Face to Face Counselling are available from Time for Talking, please contact your HR Case Adviser should you feel you need face-to –face Counselling. Contact details can be found on the HR&OD Contact List web page.
For further information contact:
Wellbeing and Attendance Improvement Adviser
Shona Diack
Wellbeing and Attendance Improvement Adviser
shona.diack@eastdunbarton.gov.uk
Financial Wellbeing
We understand that having debt, no matter how big or small, may cause stress to someone and impact their overall wellbeing.
Additional information is available and employees who wish to access assistance is available through the sources below:
Want to know more about your Pension or the work of Credit Unions?
People Development and HR have been organising a series of financially-themed sessions aimed at helping employees better understand these topics and other areas of money management.
More dates for later in the year will be confirmed soon.
Money Saving Expert provides support to budget planning, which includes a free spreadsheet to help individuals look at their income and outgoings.
Money Helper set up by government provides free and impartial financial advice. This includes guidance on improving finances, tools and calculators for budget planning, and support over the phone and online.
Money and Mental Health is a registered charity and offers help, support and advice on mental health and money issues.
Step Change debt charity offers a free service to support individuals manage their debt, including advice and practical support.
Scotwest Credit Union is one the largest credit unions in the UK, existing to provide ethical, competitive and fair financial services to anyone that lives or works in the West of Scotland area. Visit the Scotwest newsletter to read the latest news.
Citizens Advice, impartial and confidential advice, helping people resolve their money, legal and other problems to find out more contact: Scottish Citizens Advice Helpline 0800 028 1456.
New Year, New Me, Smoke-Free
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is encouraging those who smoke to go smoke-free in 2025. The new year is a brilliant time to do something positive, and quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and finances. It’ll help you breathe easier, give you more energy and save you money.
Someone who smokes 20-a-day could save up to £450 in January by going smoke-free, so quitting smoking could feel like a pay rise after just a month.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Quit Your Way service has a range of free support to make 2025 the year you go smoke-free and start enjoying the benefits.
From nicotine replacement products to one-to-one support, they’ll help you quit in a way that suits you, giving you the best chance of stopping and staying stopped.
Thinking of giving it a go? Start your journey today and visit the Quit Your Way website or head to NHS Inform and pop in your postcode to see a full list of services and find the one closest to you.
Physical Activity
Health Benefits of Physical Activity
Exercise can reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer by up to 50% and lower your risk of early death by up to 30%.
Research shows that physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Examples of Physical Activity for All
Physical activity might include simply walking, climbing stairs, mowing the lawn, or gentle gardening. Strength and conditioning also counts as physical activity and includes activities like pilates, yoga, or Tai Chi.
Walking
Walking is an activity that can be enjoyed with all the family. Paths for All provide walking routes and information in your local area click below to find out more:
Paths For ALL Work Place Walking
Paths For All Health Walk Finder
Cycling
Cycling can be enjoyed by people of all ages and is an easy way to get more active.
For most people, cycling is a safe and effective form of exercise. If you have any health concerns or an existing medical problem, see your GP before you start.
Stay safe Cycling
- practice in a safe environment
- wear a helmet
- be seen and heard
- check your bike
- be alert and plan your route
- always follow the Highway Code.
Indoor Exercise
If you are limited in getting outside to exercise there are lots of different physical activities that can be done indoors.
There are many free resources available, here are links to just few:-
NHS Fitness Studio provide lots of free workouts that range from 10 minutes to 45 minutes
Yoga with Adriene provides a range of free yoga videos for all levels, from absolute beginner to more advanced.
East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Facebook page broadcasts live keep active at home classes on a daily basis.
See the documents section for 10 Simple exercises to keep you moving at home.
Monthly Health and Wellbeing Focus
In this section we share news and links each month
on a range of international, national and local campaigns and events that focus on health and wellbeing.
2025
Stoptober (1-28 October)
Stoptober: the 28-day stop smoking challenge. Are you thinking of quitting smoking?
Quit smoking this Stoptober – when you stop smoking, good things start to happen – you can begin to see almost immediate improvements to your health. So, this October, join the thousands of smokers committing to quitting. Stop smoking for 28 days and you’re 5 times more likely to give up for good.
The NHS offers a range of support services to help you stop smoking. The Stoptober app (available on the App Store and Google Play) shows you how much you’re saving, and you can subscribe to get a daily email to boost your motivation. You can also join the stop smoking community or receive more personal support. For more information visit the Quit smoking section of the NHS website.
Don’t forget your local NHS Stop Smoking Services are free, friendly and can massively boost your chances of quitting for good. You GP, asthma nurse or pharmacist can advise you how to get started, talk to you about treatments like nicotine patches, and check your current medication.
The Council’s Smoking Policy can be accessed via the Policies and Procedures section.
Go Sober For October (1-31 October)
In conjunction with Macmillan Cancer Support we are asking you to get involved in Sober October by going alcohol-free for the month of October and raise money for people with battling cancer. You can go sober for 14, 21 or 31 days depending on what you are comfortable with.
By going sober, you are not just helping others, you are helping yourself too. Giving up the booze for a month comes with loads of feel-good benefits, but the feeling of raising vital funds. For more information visit the Go Sober website.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month (1-31 October)
#WEARITPINK (18 October)
Breast cancer it’s a scary thought and all too many women assume that it won’t happen to them. This October Breast Cancer Awareness month is focusing on raising awareness around secondary breast cancer. To learn more about secondary breast cancer research, support services and how to get involved visit the Breast Cancer Now website.
Wear it pink on 24 October – At work. At school. At home. Wherever you do it, wear pink and raise money for our life-changing breast cancer research and support this October visit the Wear It Pink section of the Breast Cancer Now website.
National Cholesterol Awareness Month (1-31 October) #NationalCholesterolMonth #NCM
This year’s National Cholesterol Month focuses on raising awareness about cholesterol, empowering people to make informed decisions and take action to lower their high cholesterol, leading to a healthier heart. Heart UK can help you take care of your heart to find out more visit the Heart UK website or contact the Cholesterol Helpline ask@heartuk.org.uk
BackCare Awareness Week (7 - 12 October)
BackCare Awareness Week 2024, is focusing on back pain prevention by keeping our spines in good health. BackCare has something for everyone including those who are working from home, working from offices, and spending more time at home
For more information including booklets, information sheets and videos to inform and remind us how to support our backs, the very structure that in turn supports us day in, day out visit the BackCare website.
Smart Working advice and guidance is also available on the Policies and Procedures section of the Employee Zone.
#WorldMentalHealthDay (10 October)
The theme of 2025’s World Mental Health Day is ‘Overwhelm: when global events and relentless bad news become too much’. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises World Mental Health Day on 10 October every year. The overall objective is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health. For more information of how to take care of your own mental health and provide support to others, the WHO website provides access to mental well-being resources visit the Mental Health Foundation website.
In cases of mental distress, the first step is to talk to someone your trust. If you you’re your need it, seek help from a professional. Anything that is troubling you, no matter how big or small there is always someone there for you:
Time for Talking offers a free 24-hour confidential helpline/support service which can be accessed by all employees. The contact details for employees looking for immediate support are as follows:
- Telephone: 0800 9703980
- Email: admin@timefortalking.co.uk
- Time for Talking Website
National Wellbeing Helpline - mental health support is available for all Health and social care workers, through the national wellbeing helpline, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number to call is 0800 111 4191
Samaritans – anything that’s troubling you no matter how big or small the issue is, Samaritans offer a free 24/7 confidential support service.
The number to call is 0141 116 123
Breathing Space - a confidential phone line for anyone in Scotland over the age of 16, feeling low, anxious, or depressed. The number to call is 0800 83 85 87
#WorkLifeWeek
National Work Life Week (6-10 October)
National Work Life Week is Working Families’ annual campaign to get both employers and employees talking about wellbeing at work and work-life balance. For more information including advice for parents and carers visit the Working Families’ website.
A range of work life balance policies can be found on the Policies and Procedures section of the Employee Zone.
World Menopause Day (18 October)
World Menopause Day is held every year on 18 October. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the menopause and the support options available for improving health and wellbeing. This year’s theme is Lifestyle Medicine. For more information, visit the International Menopause Society website.
The Council’s Menopause Policy can be accessed via the Policies and Procedures section of the Employee Zone.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the East Dunbartonshire Council Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ October Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look, visit the Heyzine website.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
#KnowYourNumbers (8-14)
Know Your Numbers! Week is the UK’s biggest blood pressure testing and awareness event encouraging all UK adults to get a blood pressure check. High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other illnesses. Around a third of people in the UK have high blood pressure, but most don’t know it. It doesn’t have any symptoms so the only way to find out is to have a blood pressure check. This year’s campaign is about ‘looking for the missing millions’ – right now, 5 million UK adults aged 18-64 may have undiagnosed high blood pressure – increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. That is why getting a simple blood pressure check at home could literally be a life saver. To learn more, visit the Blood Pressure UK website.
World Suicide Prevention Day (10)
World Suicide Prevention Day is always on 10 September. This year’s theme of ‘Changing the narrative on suicide’, highlights the importance of starting a conversation about suicide. Asking someone if they’re suicidal won’t make things worse. Evidence shows it could protect them. Asking someone directly if they’re having suicidal thoughts can give them permission to tell you how they feel. If someone does let you know that they are having suicidal thought, always take them seriously. You don’t have to be an expert, just being there to listen and showing you care can help them work through what’s going on. For more information on how to start a conversation with someone or supporting someone you’re worried about visit: www.samaritans.org
Need support? Call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan
For more information, visit the Mental Health UK website.
World Sepsis Day (13)
Sepsis is a global health crisis. The theme this year is 5 Facts x 5 Actions’ focusing on five key truths about sepsis and five urgent steps we can all take to help save lives. Sepsis affects between 47 and 50 million people every year, at least 11 million die – one death every 2.8 seconds. 20% of all deaths worldwide are associated with sepsis. Most types of microorganisms can cause sepsis, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. However, it may also be caused by infections with seasonal influenza viruses, dengue viruses, and highly transmissible pathogens of public health concerns such as avian and swine influenza viruses, Ebola, and yellow fever viruses. Sepsis is frequently underdiagnosed at an early stage – when it still is potentially reversible. To learn more about Sepsis, visit the World Sepsis Day website
Organ Donation Week (22-28)
#organdonation
#turntheskiespink
Organ donation is when you decide to give an organ to save or transform the life of someone else. This week aims to raise awareness of organ donation and encourage more discussion with families about this life-saving gift. Did you know that you can donate some organs while you are alive, and this is called living organ donation. However, most organ and tissue donations come from people who have died. This year to raise awareness around organ donation as many local landmarks and buildings across the country will turn pink in memory of more than 400 people who died last year, waiting for an organ transplant, and to encourage people to confirm their decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register. To register your decision or to simply find out more information, visit the NHS website or Turn the skies pink for Organ Donation Week - NHS Blood and Transplant
Healing through Loss – webinar – Tuesday 23 September 2025 at 6pm
This September Time for Talking are focussing on bereavement – with a free webinar Healing Through Loss: Navigating Bereavement with Strength and Support – to sign up please see QR code below:
National Fitness Day (24)
#FITNESSDAY
National Fitness Day is a chance to highlight the role physical activity plays across the UK, helping raise awareness of its importance in assisting us lead healthier lifestyles through being physically active. #FitnessDay aims to celebrate what fitness means to people, promoting that keeping physically active means something different to us all. To get involved with #FitnessDay and participate in the biggest movement in breaking down the barriers that stop people being active, showing fitness is for everyone, visit the Natioinal Fitness Day website.
World’s Biggest Coffee Morning (26)
Macmillan’s Coffee Morning is their biggest fundraising event to support people living with cancer. People all over the UK host their own Coffee Morning and donations raised on the day are made to Macmillan for those who need support while suffering with cancer. To find out more or sign up, visit Macmillan Coffee Register or visit Coffee Morning - Macmillan Cancer Support from your own mobile device.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the East Dunbartonshire Council Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ September Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look by visiting the Heyzine website.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Alcohol Awareness Week (7-13)
Alcohol and Work
Around 10 million of us are regularly drinking alcohol in ways that can harm our health and wellbeing. From headaches, hangovers and sleepless nights to lower productivity and symptoms like anxiety and depressions worsening over time, alcohol affects us in so many ways. This is an opportunity to stop and think about the impact of the work we do on our risk from alcohol to feel healthier, more productive and happier. To find out more visit the Alcohol Change website.
World Hepatitis Day (28)
#There is no time to waste!
# Take action. Get tested.
World Hepatitis Day is observed each year on 28 July to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that causes severe liver disease and hepatocellular cancer. This World Hepatitis Day will amplify the voices of people living with hepatitis demanding testing, treatment, vaccinations and the end of stigma. It will make it clear there is no time to waste, and that leaders, politicians, doctors and communities must act now. To find out more or get involved, visit the World Hepatitis Day website or the World Health Organisation website.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the East Dunbartonshire Council Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ July Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Men’s Health Week (9-15)
#MENSHEALTHWEEK
Led by the Men’s Health Forum to raise awareness of preventable health issues and encourage men and boys to seek professional advice for health-related problems. This year the focus is around why we need a Men’s Health Strategy and what it needs to include. To find out more or sign up for Men’s Health Week visit Men’s Health forum website. Find helplines available on the NHS website.
World Blood Donor Day (14)
On 14 June, the world celebrated World Blood Donor Day, global tribute to the millions of voluntary, unpaid blood donors who give others a second chance at life. Their generosity saves lives, strengthen communities and embodies the spirit of solidarity. It’s a day to say thank you, but also to spotlight the ongoing, urgent need for safe, regular blood donations. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about the critical need for blood and plasma donations and encourage new donors. To find out more about World Blood Donor Day visit the World Health Organization website.
Deskto3k
Start your journey with the University of Glasgow’s Sport - Desk to 3 K programme which will help efficiently move you from minimal exercise to running 3km with ease, just eight weeks after starting. Featuring hints and tips, a warm-up routine and step by step guide. To find out more and get yourself from desk to 3K visit the University of Glasgow website.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ June Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal which can be read online.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics. To get it type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Further information can be found in the Wellbeing section of the Employee Zone website.
National Walking Month (1-31)
#WALKTHISMAY #MagicOfWalking #Try20
May is Living Streets’ National Walking Month. Throughout May, Living Streets’ are encouraging people to #Try20 and walk for 20 minutes every day during the month. Following the success of last year, Living Streets’ is encouraging you to discover the #MagicOfWalking and celebrate the many health, wellbeing and economic benefits of walking and wheeling. Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve our health and stay connected to our community, helping us feel less lonely and isolated. By swapping a short drive for a short walk, you can also help reduce air pollution, congestion and road danger – whilst saving yourself some money and getting active in the process!
May also sees the return of #WalkToSchoolWeek (19-23) when children across the UK are encouraged to discover the joys of walking and wheeling to school. The theme for 2025 is #TheGreatSpaceWalk, with intergalactic characters to guide pupils as they discover the benefits of walking and wheeling.
To find out more about #MagicOfWalking and explore the resources visit the Living Streets website.
Sun Awareness Week (12-18)
Sun Awareness Week is the start to the British Association of Dermatologist summer of sun awareness campaign and raises awareness around sun protection and skin cancer. Sun Awareness is vital as skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, and rates continue to rise. To find out more visit the Skin Health Information website.
Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18)
#Community
Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event when there is an opportunity for the whole of the UK to focus on achieving good mental health. This year’s theme is Community and to celebrate the power and importance of community. Being part of a safe, positive community is vital for our mental health and wellbeing. We thrive when we have strong connections with other people and supportive communities that remind us, we are not alone. Communities can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and give us a sense of purpose. To find out more or get involved visit the Mental Health Foundation website.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the East Dunbartonshire Council Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ May Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look by visiting the Heyzine website.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Bowel Cancer Awareness Month (1-30)
#PassItOn!
They say knowledge is power, so this April we’re asking everyone to share important information about bowel cancer. Will you help #PassItOn?
The earlier bowel cancer is spotted, the more treatable it’s likely to be. In fact, more than 9 in 10 people survive bowel cancer when it is diagnosed at the earliest stage. To find out more or get involved visit the bowelcancer website.
Move More Month (1-30)
Stress Awareness Month (1-30)
#LeadWithLove
Stress Awareness Month is an annual event observed every April since 1992, dedicated to increasing public awareness about the causes and cures of stress. This is an opportunity for you to take charge of your wellbeing and discover effective ways to manage stress. This year’s theme #LeadWithLove, empowers you to approach ourselves and others with kindness, compassion, and acceptance no matter the challenges we face.
Whether you are looking for personal growth or ways to support others visit the Stress Management Society website resource-page to uncover a range of resources including information packs, meditations, podcasts, action planners and practical tools to navigate stress more effectively
Kindness Calendar
A Kindness Calendar provides daily suggestions and inspiration for prA Kindness Calendar provides daily suggestions and inspiration for practicing kindness towards oneself and others throughout Stress Awareness Month. It encourages individuals to actively cultivate empathy, compassion, and positive connections, aligning with the "Lead with Love" theme and promoting Unconditional Positive Regard (UPR). acticing kindness towards oneself and others throughout Stress Awareness Month. It encourages individuals to actively cultivate empathy, compassion, and positive connections, aligning with the ‘Lead with Love’ theme and promoting Unconditional Positive Regard (UPR).
- Write down three things you appreciate about yourself
- Spend 15 minutes doing something you enjoy just for yourself
- Hold the door open for someone
- Practice a mindful breathing exercise or meditation
- Write a "love note" to yourself, highlighting your strengths
- Treat yourself to something special such as a bath or yummy drink
- Pick up litter in your neighbourhood
- Offer a genuine compliment to a colleague or friend
- Hedlp someone with a task or chore
- Express gratitude to someone who has made a difference in your life
- Practice active listening and show empathy towards someone
- Donate to a charity or volunteer your time
- Perform a random act of kindness for a stranger
- Forgive yourself for a past mistake or someone who has hurt you
- Practice using positive and encouraging language
- Create a kindness jar to put notes about kind things you do
- Actively listen without interrupting
- Bring a small snack to share with a friend
- Make a list of things you're grateful for
- Express your appreciation for someone's efforts
- Offer encouraging words to someone who is struggling
- Help someone carry their things
- Smile at people you encounter throughout the day
- Offer your seat on public transportation
- Write down three kind things about yourself.
- Ask someone how their day was and really listen
- Donate a gently used item such as a book
- Let someone go ahead of you in line
- Spread positivity by sharing inspiring quotes or stories
- Reflect on all the acts of kindness you've witnessed and performed throughout the month.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ April Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look by viewing our Wellbeing Times.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month (1-31)
#OCAM
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month (OCAM) – and a great opportunity to spread the word about a much overlooked disease and communicate how Ovarian Cancer Action are funding world-class research in order to find better, kinder treatments for a woman facing a diagnosis today, or to prevent the disease for the next generation of women. To find out more including the symptoms of ovarian cancer visit:macmillan cancer support - cancer awareness month
National No Smoking Day (12)
The first No Smoking Day was on Ash Wednesday in 1984 and is now an annual health awareness day which takes place on the second Wednesday in March. The aim or the day is to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking and to encourage people to quit. The day is designed to reach out to friends or family members who suffer nicotine addiction. Smoking is one of the biggest preventable causes of premature death. To learn more on the benefits of quitting smoking and accessing support to stop smoking is available on the NHS Inform website and Quit Your Way Scotland
View the Council’s Smoking Policy.
The Council is committed to promoting healthy living and non-smoking as its normal culture by establishing a smoke-free environment for all employees and being sensitive to the needs of those who smoke by offering support to those wishing to give up smoking.
World Sleep Day (14)
World Sleep Day ‘Making Sleep Health a Priority’
#WorldSleepDay is an annual event to raise awareness about the importance of sleep for achieving an optimal quality of life and improve global health. For more information and tips to achieve a healthy sleep click on the links:
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the EDC Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service on the hub.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ March Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look by visiting the Wellbeing Times.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Time to Talk Day (6)
‘FANCY A BREW? LET’S TALK IT THROUGH’!
Get comfortable and start talking about mental health
Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. Happening every year, it’s a day from friends, families, communities, and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and change lives. We know the more conversations we have, the better life is for everyone. Talking about mental health isn’t always easy, but a conversation has the power to change lives. For more information or for ideas on how to take part in Time to Talk Day from hosting a lunch to simply sharing information on social media or texting a friend visit the Time to Talk Day website.
Need support? Call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service
World Cancer Day (4)
#WorldCancerDay #CloseTheCareGap
Create a future without cancer. The time to act is now. Never underestimate the power of co-operation and collective action to save lives. What will you do on 4 February? Speak up, stand up and take action together this World Cancer Day. To take part or find out more visit the World Cancer Day website.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ February Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look by visiting the Heyzine website.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Dry January (1-31)
Dry January is the UK’s one month alcohol-free challenge. It isn’t about giving anything up. It’s about getting something back. Get your fun back. Get your energy back. Get your calm back. Get your YOU back. To take part or find out more visit the Alcohol Change website.
Love Your Liver
Lover Your Liver is the British Liver Trust’s national awareness campaign to liver health awareness and giving people the key steps needed to keep their liver healthy. For more information or to participate in the free online screener visit the British Liver Trust website.
East Dunbartonshire Councils Drug, Alcohol and Substance Misuse Policy and associated toolkit can be found on the Employee Zone. For more information visit the Policies and Procedures page.
Brew Monday (20)
This Brew Monday, Samaritans is reminding everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about. The third Monday in January is sometimes referred to as ‘the most difficult day of the year’ but the Samaritans are trying to change this myth, recognising we all have our good and our bad days. So instead of Monday being ‘blue’ reach out and connect with family, friends, colleagues and loved ones – we can always make time for a cuppa and a catch-up. It doesn’t matter if it’s Monday morning or Saturday night, or if you’re drinking green tea, black coffee or orange juice. If you’re sharing a cuppa and listening, you’re doing it right. For more information visit the Samaritans website.
Need support? Call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking.
Time for Talking ‘Wellbeing Times’ January Newsletter
Our employee assistance programme provider have a monthly Wellbeing Times newsletter which includes fitness tips, recipes, helps with setting monthly goals and a daily journal – take a look by visiting the Heyzine Wellbeing Times.
Time For Talking App
Time for Talking Counselling service also has a Counselling & Psychological Wellbeing app that delivers support for individuals, couples, and families to make counselling easier and more accessible. The app is packed with resources on a number of topics.
How to Get it?
Type TimeForTalking (no spaces) in the App store or Google Play/Android.
Further support around employee wellbeing can be accessed via the Employee Assistance Programme – Time for Talking counselling service.