Helping someone is not only a nice feeling, it is also good for your mental health. People are invited to carry out an act of kindness every day next week to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, from Monday 21 to Sunday 27 May.

It could be as simple as making someone a cup of tea; paying a compliment or offering to help someone with a chore if you know they are struggling at home or work; or smiling at someone or saying thank you. If you can, you could do more - such as volunteering for a charity or organisation, to find out more about volunteering opportunities in Kent and Medway click here.

These things cost little or nothing, yet the effect can be priceless for the person on the receiving end. People who have carried out a kind act are then encouraged to share how it made them feel on the Mental Health Foundation Facebook page.

Research shows that being kind can help reduce stress, improve your emotional wellbeing and can help your physical as well as your mental wellbeing.

Lauretta Kavanagh, director of mental health commissioning for NHS Kent and Medway, said: “It is a lovely idea for everyone to do good and think about how it makes them feel.

“It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or cost money. We know that giving of yourself is one of the five ways to enhance your wellbeing, which help people get more out of life and get through difficult times.”

To find out more about the five ways to wellbeing click here.