Now is the time to make mental health and wellbeing a global priority
THIS year, World Mental Health Day was marked on Monday, October 10.
Set by the World Federation for Mental Health, this year’s theme is, ‘make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority’, focusing on the importance of good mental health for all
For over 70 years, we’ve been working to make sure that mental health is treated on a par with physical health.
Mental health problems exist in our lives, families, workplaces and communities, impacting everyone. We need to do as much as possible to prevent mental ill-health – as individuals and as a society.
We can do that by continuing to call on national and our local government to prioritise reducing the factors known to pose a risk to people’s mental health, enhancing those known to protect it and creating the conditions needed for people to thrive.
World Mental Health Day was also a chance for us all to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling.
The event plays an incredibly important role in highlighting the importance of opening up about our mental health and breaking down the stigma associated with mental health conditions and related issues.
Over the past 30 months, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on people’s mental health, but particularly health and frontline workers, students, those living alone, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions.
Also now add in to the mix the cost-of-living crisis, where many of us are already feeling the pinch. The recent steep rise of the cost of food, heating, electricity and fuel and the impact that is having on individuals and families’ quality of life in relation to their overall physical and mental health.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
SHARE EXPERIENCES
A great way to is to share your own mental health experiences.
All too often, people struggling with their mental health feel they are alone and are embarrassed to talk about how they are feeling. Hearing other people’s experiences can really help – reassuring them that they are not alone and encouraging them to open up about how they are feeling. Real-life stories can spark important conversations that
can ultimately save lives.
SPARKING CONVERSATIONS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Sparking conversations on social media is a great way to connect with people and raise awareness of mental health.
Whether you share an important article or discuss your own experiences with mental health, this is a great opportunity to spread the word and support people around the globe.
CHECK-IN WITH YOUR OWN MENTAL HEALTH
World Mental Health Day should provide a reminder to check in with your own mental health. Making time to do this regularly will help reduce your stress levels and avoid burnout.
Whether you write about how you’re feeling in a journal each day or simply take five minutes to really think about how you feel that day, it can really help your mental wellbeing.
MAKE A PLEDGE
There’s no better time than World Mental Health Day than to make a pledge about your own mental health, whether that’s to practise selfcare more often, make more time for yourself, or remove toxic people or distractions from your life.
PRACTISE SELF CARE
Self-care plays an incredibly important role in looking after your mental health.
Of course, self-care looks different for everyone. From exercising regularly and eating well through to journaling and seeking professional help when needed, there are lots of ways to keep your mind and body healthy and happy.
EXPRESSING DAILY GRATITUDE
Expressing daily gratitude is another great way to mark World Mental Health Day!
Another form of self-care and reflection is the perfect way to remind yourself what you are thankful for in your life.
Over time, this can help alter any negative thought processes, by teaching yourself the importance of being grateful for what you have in life.
REACH OUT TO LOVED ONES
World Mental Health Day and the days around it is the perfect time to reach out to loved ones who might be facing their own mental health struggles.
Simply asking how they are and reminding them that you are there for them can go a long way.
There are lots of ways to connect with family and friends.
Whether you invite your friend out for a coffee, pick up the phone, or even reach out on social media, a simple message can be all someone needs to address their mental health issues.
THE GREEN RIBBON IS THE INTERNATIONAL SYMBOL OF MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
Wear a green ribbon to show colleagues, loved ones or simply those you walk past that you care about their mental health.
It can also be worn in memory of a loved one.
If you require further support please contact Mairead on 07894432029 or email maireadmillmore2@gmail.com or mairead.millmore@seff. org.uk