A new campaign will highlight the benefits to Fifers of regularly taking time out for themselves.
Project You encourages people to take a regular break from life’s daily demands, to help boost their mood and feel more in control.
With the campaign message ‘to keep going, sometimes you need to stop’, people can sign up to a six-week email programme providing practical help and advice on how to make that happen.
Research undertaken shows that almost half of people (46%) in Fife expressed having levels of anxiety, with over half (57%) feeling elements of stress, and 62% saying they felt tired.
However, over three quarters of people (78%) recognise there are things they are personally able to do to improve their health and wellbeing.
Project You highlights how making time to go for a walk, having a blether with pals, taking a breather or switching off screens before bed can all help people feel more able to take on whatever life brings.
Fife has been selected for the Project You pilot due to the wealth of activities and support available within the community.
The campaign which will involve radio, outdoor and digital advertising, will signpost local resources and services designed to help people feel better more often.
A five-date roadshow will also travel to venues to prompt people to make time, and the campaign is also being supported by local employers.
Minister for Mental Health Clare Haughey said: “Juggling work, family and other life demands can make people feel like they’re running on empty. This campaign is about telling people it’s okay to regularly take time for themselves as doing so can help boost your mood.
“The everyday pressures of life can be overwhelming and change can seem difficult.
“However, as this campaign highlights, small changes such as moving more, making time to catch up with friends or family or taking a five-minute breather can make a difference.”
Dr Frances Baty, consultant clinical psychologist and head of the Fife Psychology Service, said: “If we don’t make time to take care of ourselves, we can get stressed. And not only can stress cause health problems, but it can make day to day life that much harder, affecting how you sleep, your relationships, and your mood.
“For this reason, it’s important to give yourself a break and do things that help you rest and recharge. This is not selfish, it’s important as it’ll help you feel much more equipped to deal with life’s demands, and ultimately feel more in control.”
For help and inspiration – and to sign up to the six-week email programme – visit ProjectYou.scot.
