5 Ways to Wellbeing

We all need good mental health and wellbeing to live happy and healthy lives. It can help us sleep better, feel better, do the things we want to do and have more positive relationships. It can also help us deal with difficult times in the future.

Looking after our mental health is something that we should think about all the time. It isn't something to think about only when we are struggling, feeling low, anxious or stressed. It's something that we should invest our time and effort in, as we do with our physical health. There are lots of simple, everyday things that we can all do to improve our mental health and wellbeing.

The 5 Ways to Wellbeing

There is evidence to suggest that there are five positive actions we can take to make us feel happier, healthier and have a greater sense of mental wellbeing. These are ‘Be Active’, ‘Connect’, ‘Give’, ‘Keep Learning’ and ‘Take Notice’, known collectively as the 5 Ways to Wellbeing.

Research shows that building these positive actions into our daily life can help us to live happier, healthier lives for longer. There are lots of simple, often completely free things you can do. You might already be doing some of these things without even realising the positive effect that they can have.

Click on the icons to find out more information about each of the 5 ways, along with advice and ideas to help you to build the 5 Ways to Wellbeing into your daily life.

There are lots of little things we can all do to help look after our mental health. You can also find expert advice and practical tips on the NHS Every Mind Matters pages.