This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and the theme for this year is loneliness. Throughout the week, people are being encouraged to build meaningful connections with friends, family and colleagues.

Society has changed so much over the past few years. The pandemic has given rise to a sense of loneliness and isolation as people's daily routines have altered, with many adapting to hybrid of home working.

We thought we would share our top 5 tips to both de-stress and battle loneliness (and have some fun whilst doing it!)

Take up a new hobby - Why not ask a friend, colleague or family member if they fancy taking up a new hobby - you could start a weekly baking club with a small group of friends or ask if they fancy enjoying some evening sunshine with a new sporting activity now the weather is (slowly) improving? Spending time with those you love and getting those endorphins flowing helps both your mental and physical wellbeing, so it's a win win!
Start journalling (or colouring) - Getting pen to paper and journalling regularly is a fantastic way of offloading and expressing your feelings without fear of judgement. Regularly monitoring your mood can be really helpful to uncover what makes you stressed, or identifying fears which may be impacting your mood. A few simple words or score out of 10 can be a helpful way of tracking your mood and reminding you when to reach out for support. Setting goals for the week, month or even year (even if they're small daily tasks) can help you keep both your mental and physical health in check. Adult colouring books are also a fantastic way to de-stress and focus on something else at the end of a long day.
Light a wax melt and relax - Wax melts are an affordable and super convenient way of enjoying your favourite relaxing fragrance, and they last even longer than candles. Why not light a wax melt and enjoy a relaxing bath with your favourite film or series (don't worry we've got just the thing so you don't drop your tablet or phone in the bath!). Having you time is so important, even if it's simply half an hour watching your favourite show or calling a friend for a catch up.
Snuggle up on the sofa with a Hot-Pak® - The weather might be improving, but we all know the British weather is temperamental, so it won't be long until you're snuggled up again on the sofa! Why not get extra cosy with a Warmies@ Premium Hot-Pak®, which also helps relieve aches and pains and relax you with its lavender scent.
Try your hand at a puzzle - There are countless known benefits of doing puzzles, such as improved memory, enhanced mood and lower stress levels, and if you enjoy a puzzle with a friend or loved one then its even better!

If you would like some more information about tips and tools to combat loneliness this Mental Health Week, or how you can support this year's campaign, then click here.

Top 5 tips to battle loneliness this Mental Health Awareness Week