Wellbeing is all about staying happy, healthy and safe

Online Safety

The internet is a great way to keep connected with friends and family, but it is important to know how to keep yourself safe

Here are some top tips

  • Do not meet up alone with someone who you have met on the internet. They may not be who they say they are

  • Never give out personal information about yourself - this includes things like your date of birth, address, phone number and email address. If you are not sure if you should be sharing information online, you can ask a trusted adult to give you some advice

  • Be careful about what photos you post - only post pictures with people you know, and never share pictures of where you live

  • Keep all your passwords secret - this includes the passcode to your phone or other devices

  • If you receive a text or email, check it is from you they say they are. If the email contains lots of random numbers and letters, it could be a scam. Talk to a trusted adult if you are not sure

  • Never click on links in emails or text messages unless you are sure you know who they are from

You can find more information here

Staying Healthy

It is important to keep your body healthy and as you get older you will be the one who has the most control over this.

Keeping healthy means making sure you eat a balanced diet and get enough exercise.

Sheffield Mencap and Gateway are collaborating with the NHS on the delivery of a range of health services to support adults and children aged 14+ with learning disabilities access health care.

Find out more here

  • Make sure you are eating food from each of the main food groups every day. You should aim for 5 pieces of fruit or vegetables a day, and try not to each fatty, sugary food like crisps and chocolate every day - you can still eat them, but it is important to enjoy them in moderation.

  • Exercise is a great way to keep healthy, and it can be fun too!

    Some people like to go running, and other people like to go swimming. There are lots of ways to exercise, and it's all about finding the best way for you.

    If you fancy trying an activity, group or club Move More and Disability Sports Sheffield may have the right one for you. You can view their brochure here

    Even just dancing around the kitchen can count as exercise!

Mental Health

We all need to look after our mental health as well as our physical health. This can be difficult at times and you may feel that your mental health or ‘emotional health’ takes a back seat. There are things you can do to manage your our own mental health and services that can help you to do this too.

You can find more information about mental health support here

  • Just making a few changes to your daily routines can have a positive impact on your mood and mental health!

    • Sleep - make sure you get enough and reduce blue light exposure from devices before you sleep

    • Regular exercise - just 30 minutes a day can boost your mood and improve your health

    • Eat healthy - Try to eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water

    • Stay connected - Talk to your family and friends regularly about how you feel

  • Your GP would usually be the first person to contact however, when that is not an option you can make contact with the following:

    Kooth offers a free, safe and anonymous support for young people.They have counsellors available midday to 10pm Monday to Friday, and 6pm-10pm at weekends.

    Shout is a free, confidential 24/7 text message support service. It is an anonymous service and you can text them on 85258.

    Sheffield Support Hub This is a walk-in service with no need to be referred. You can also telephone them for an appointment in advance if you prefer. They also offer virtual support via telephone and video call.

    OR

    Dial 111 and ask for the mental health option

    You can attend A&E and wait to be assessed

    In an emergency call 999

  • Emotions are how you may feel about something and feelings are how you might experience them. Please visit links below for guides on how to recognise and understand your feelings and emotions better.

    Young Minds

    Mind

Further support

If you are finding it difficult to stay healthy, either physically or mentally then the NHS can help you. Speak to your GP if you think you need some help.