5 Ways to Wellbeing: Boosting Mental Health in Schools and Colleges

“Are you okay?”

It’s a simple question, but in today’s world—especially within schools and colleges—honestly answering can be difficult. The academic pressures, screen fatigue, and emotional challenges students face can make it hard to respond.

At youHQ, we understand that mental wellbeing is not a luxury, but a critical foundation. That’s why we’ve built a digital platform to foster a whole-school environment where both students and staff feel supported, safe, and empowered.

One powerful framework that helps us achieve this is the Five Ways to Wellbeing—an evidence-based, straightforward approach that can transform mental health. These are not costly programs or complicated interventions. They’re simple, everyday actions that make a big difference in enhancing our wellbeing.

Let’s explore the 5 ways to wellbeing and how schools and colleges can leverage them to build a stronger, more compassionate community.

What Are the 5 Ways to Wellbeing?

The Five Ways to Wellbeing are easy-to-apply strategies that improve mental health and emotional resilience. The five core elements are:

1. Connect – Strengthen Relationships

2. Be Active – Enhance Mood through Movement

3. Take Notice – Practice Mindfulness

4. Keep Learning – Stay Curious

5. Give – Perform Acts of Kindness

   
   

Let’s dive into each of these and explore how schools can implement them for greater impact.

1. Connect – Building Stronger Relationships

Human connection is more important than ever. In the school environment, fostering meaningful connections—whether through peer mentoring, casual conversations, or teacher check-ins—can help reduce isolation and increase emotional resilience.

How schools can apply it:

• Implement peer mentoring or buddy systems

• Create time for reflective journaling or circle time

• Use platforms like youHQ to foster communication between students and teachers

  
  

Why it matters: Students who feel heard and seen are more engaged and motivated, and are more likely to seek help when needed.

2. Be Active – Move Your Mood

Exercise isn’t just for the body—it’s a powerful tool for the mind. Physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress, and boost concentration. And the good news? You don’t need a gym membership to experience its benefits.

How schools can apply it:

• Introduce short movement breaks between lessons

• Create walking clubs or active travel challenges

• Encourage outdoor learning

  
  

Pro tip: Even 10 minutes of physical activity can help improve your mental wellbeing for the rest of the day.

3. Take Notice – Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is about slowing down and being present. It’s not just meditation—it’s about taking a moment to notice the world around us and checking in with ourselves. For students experiencing stress or burnout, this practice can be life-changing.

How schools can apply it:

• Introduce gratitude journaling or reflection sessions

• Integrate sensory activities in lessons

• Use mood check-ins through youHQ to track emotions

  
  

Why it matters: Being present helps reduce anxiety, and mindfulness gives students the tools to manage stress effectively.

4. Keep Learning – Embrace Curiosity

A growth mindset is essential for both academic and mental wellbeing. Learning new things—no matter how small—can improve self-esteem and expand our perspectives.

How schools can apply it:

• Introduce "curiosity corners" or weekly topics

• Offer lunchtime clubs to explore creative or niche interests

• Support students in setting value-based goals with youHQ

  
  

Fun fact: Lifelong learning is linked to better mental health and higher life satisfaction—regardless of age or ability.

5. Give – Acts of Kindness Matter

Helping others not only strengthens communities but also boosts our happiness. Acts of kindness, big or small, make a meaningful impact on our mental health and wellbeing.

How schools can apply it:

• Organize charity drives or peer support roles

• Celebrate acts of kindness in assemblies

• Encourage anonymous affirmations or praise

  
  

Small gestures matter: A compliment, a helping hand, or even a smile can create a more compassionate and supportive school culture.

Embedding the 5 Ways to Wellbeing into School Culture

The Five Ways to Wellbeing should not just be a checklist—they should be part of the everyday fabric of your school. When integrated into daily activities, these steps can create a culture of care that supports both students and staff.

At youHQ, we’ve made it our mission to turn these steps into actionable, trackable habits using our digital wellbeing tool. From daily reflections and mood tracking to value-based goal-setting, our platform helps schools build a consistent, measurable culture of care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What are the 5 ways to wellbeing? The 5 ways to wellbeing are simple, evidence-based actions designed to improve mental health. They include connecting with others, being active, noticing your surroundings, keeping learning, and giving back to others.

2) Where did the 5 ways to wellbeing come from? The Five Ways to Wellbeing were developed by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) in 2008 as part of research into the factors that contribute to mental and emotional wellbeing.

3) How can schools apply the 5 ways to wellbeing? Schools can apply these principles by creating spaces for connection, incorporating physical activity into daily routines, promoting mindfulness, encouraging curiosity, and fostering a culture of kindness and giving.

Ready to Reimagine Wellbeing in Your School?

Creating a school environment where everyone can thrive doesn’t need to be complicated. By taking small, consistent steps, schools can become places where mental wellbeing is prioritised, and everyone—students and staff alike—can flourish.

Book a demo with youHQ today and discover how we’re helping schools worldwide in creating thriving, wellbeing-focused communities.