Hi everyone, and a warm welcome to this online course dedicated to supporting your mental wellbeing. This course is designed specifically for care leavers who are working towards semi-independence, a significant and often exciting step in life. We understand that this transition can be a period of great change, bringing with it new freedoms and opportunities, but also its own unique set of challenges. Learning to manage a household, finances, relationships, and all the other aspects of independent living can be a lot to juggle, and it's completely normal to experience a range of emotions, including stress, worry, and sadness.

This course focuses on mental health, a vital part of overall wellbeing. We'll be exploring two common mental health experiences that many people face: anxiety and depression. We’ll delve into what these experiences are, exploring the different ways they can manifest in your daily life. We'll look at the common signs and symptoms, helping you to recognise them in yourself and others. This isn’t about self-diagnosis, but about building awareness and understanding.

More importantly, this course is about equipping you with practical tools and coping strategies. We'll explore techniques you can use to manage difficult feelings, build resilience, and promote positive mental health. These strategies will be practical and adaptable, allowing you to find what works best for you in your own individual circumstances. We'll cover things like mindfulness techniques, stress management strategies, and healthy coping mechanisms.

This course is designed to be supportive and informative, not judgmental or prescriptive. We understand that everyone's experience is unique, and we're here to provide you with information and resources that you can adapt to your own needs. We want to empower you to take control of your mental wellbeing as you navigate this important stage of your life. Building a strong foundation for your future includes looking after your mental health, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.