Novus Blog
Mental Health Awareness Week: Our Wellbeing Tips

Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week in May, the Novus Mental Health First Aiders will be sharing their top wellbeing tips. Be sure to check back each day for a new one.
Number 1: Notice How Full Your “Stress Container” is – Mental Health First Aider Kevin Rhone
This is an essential part of keeping yourself well. We need to be able to recognise when things are building up to a critical level so we can employ some coping mechanisms.
All too often we don’t pay enough attention to ourselves. The analogy of a “stress bucket” is also good to share with colleagues – ask them what is in theirs – it’s a good way of finding out information you might be unaware of. |
![]() |
Number 2: Ease Back Into Social Situations – Mental Health First Aider Kevin Hunt
Since your social calendar has been probably been blank for the last few months, filling it back up can be exciting — but it can also cause anxiety.
People who are experiencing social anxiety can feel like they are being judged when they are with other people and in social situations.
Just because we’re allowed to mingle a little more indoors from 17th May, it doesn’t mean that you have to arrange meetings with people and go full-steam-ahead with socialising again.
All of us will need to assess situations before they happen and decide if it is the right thing for us at that time. |
![]() |
Maybe start by spending time with people who are in your inner circle as these are the people who you feel the most comfortable with and who you can trust.
It is okay to say no to a social gathering if you feel uncomfortable with it.
Number 3: Stay Active – Mental Health First Aider Liberty Dane
Engaging in regular physical activity is known to go hand-in-hand with lower rates of depression and anxiety across all age groups.
Not everyone needs to be a fitness fanatic to boost your wellness through activity. Simply step outside, exercise your green fingers or organise a games night and get moving.
You could go for a walk or run, cycle or dance (just not at a wedding for the time-being!). |
![]() |
Exercise releases hormones that make you feel good.
Most importantly, being active is about discovering a physical activity you enjoy and that suits your level of mobility and fitness.
Number 4: A Healthy Work-Life Balance – Mental Health First Aider Angela Ford
Many of us are still working from home for either all, most, or some of the week.
Work and home life can become intertwined at times, but it is important that the two are kept separate to prevent issues such as mental fatigue and burnout.
My suggestions for maintaining a healthy balance are:
|
![]() |
Number 5: Talk About Your Feelings – Mental Health First Aider Sue Pringle
It is really important that you pay attention to what you’re feeling.
There are so many helpful resources out there that give you practical tips and techniques to help you look after your emotional health.
Talking about how you’re feeling can help put things into perspective and may help you feel more positive about the future.
This could be a close friend or family member but if you don’t feel like there’s anyone you can talk to, you are never alone. Samaritans are an excellent resource and are available 24/7 and 365 days a year. Visit their website to find out how to get in touch.
Thank You For Reading
We would like to take the time to thank you for reading this article and hope that you found the tips useful.
Alongside the Samaritans, other helpful resources are available at Rethink, Mind, and local NHS support services.

Introducing our Apprentice of the Year: Lily Davies
This week is National Apprenticeship Week, so we’re shining the spotlight on one of Novus’ true rising stars – and recent winner of our Apprentice of the Year’ trophy at the Novus Awards – Lily Davies, who is working with us as a Junior Bid Writer.
We asked Lily to tell us about her journey so far, and her aspirations for the future – and what she would tell people considering beginning their own apprenticeship journey in our sector.