Keep Curious, Keep Learning

We should never stop learning. It keeps our brain stimulated, opens our minds to new experiences and staves off depression.

Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) is just over a month away and the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) is calling for people to Keep Learning – be curious, embrace new experiences and see opportunities in the world around them.

Keep Learning, one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing, is the official theme for MHAW 2014.

Much has been made recently in the news about identifying and dealing with mental health issues constructively. The more we are all informed, the better equipped we are to help ourselves and those we love.

“Learning isn’t just for children – we all need to embrace opportunities to keep learning throughout our lives.” MHF Chief Executive Judi Clements says.

“When we say keep learning, we’re not saying all New Zealanders need to run off and sign themselves up at their nearest university or polytech. We simply want to encourage everyone to be curious and engaged with the world around them – it makes a surprisingly large difference to wellbeing.”

Evidence shows that being a life-long learner boosts self-confidence and self-esteem, helps to build a sense of purpose, and connects us with others. Learning is linked to greater life satisfaction and optimism, and plays an important role in children’s social and cognitive development.

For the first time, Mental Health Awareness Week is going to feature MHF workshops to help you Keep Learning. 

Kids can participate in MHAW by entering our colouring competition, with the opportunity to win $50 prezzy cards.

For more information about MHAW, including what events are being held in your area, how to get involved, and research about the value of learning, click www.mentalhealth.org.nz/mhaw