The Foundation states that nature is a great untapped resource for a mentally healthy future and their aim for the week is to inspire more people to connect with nature in new ways.

So when you are outside stop and listen to the birds or watch them gathering food for their young, take a moment to smell the freshly cut grass and take more notice of the insects, trees and flowers. Allow yourself to appreciate your connections with nature.

If you want to get involved you could share images, videos and sound recordings of nature on your doorstep using #ConnectWithNature and #MentalHealthAwareness Week.

Also during Mental Health Awareness Week you could help improve Dorset’s mental wellbeing by taking part in a study being carried out by Public Health Dorset and Bournemouth University.

The survey is to find out from local people what they believe about mental health, how they feel about seeking support for their own mental health, and also how confident they are in supporting friends/family with their mental health.

If you are over 18 and live in Dorset, they’d love to hear your thoughts and would be especially keen to hear from men.

The survey can be completed on line in around 20 minutes and you can withdraw from participation at any time and without giving a reason, simply by closing the browser page. You can also exit the study and start it again at a later time without consequence. Here is the link if you want to find out more https://bournemouthpsych.eu.qualtrics.com