World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th each year, is an opportunity to raise awareness, promote mental health education, and advocate for mental health support. Dealing with this day can involve several meaningful actions for yourself and your community. This year’s theme is focusing on workplaces. For those with chronic/invisible illnesses it may feel irrelevant. It can also feel overwhelming seeing a number of posts about something you may have been battling for everyday. ***Disclaimer*** This is an opinion post, we are not medical professionals.
1. Self-Care and Reflection
Assess your mental health: Take time to check in with yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically. Use mindfulness techniques, journaling, or meditation to understand how you're feeling.
Practice self-care: Engage in activities that bring you peace and joy, such as exercise, reading, or spending time in nature.
Talk to someone: If you're feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional for support.
2. Educate and Raise Awareness
Learn about mental health: Take the opportunity to educate yourself about mental health conditions, available support systems, and ways to promote mental well-being.
Share resources: Use your social media platforms to share information, helplines, or personal stories about mental health. You can post infographics, articles, or videos that highlight the importance of mental health care.
Participate in discussions: Join webinars, community events, or panels that address mental health challenges and solutions, particularly those focused on stigma reduction and access to care.
3. Support Others
Check in on loved ones: Reach out to friends, family members, or colleagues to ask how they are doing. Sometimes, just letting someone know you care can make a big difference.
Volunteer or donate: Support mental health organizations through volunteering or by making a donation. You can also help by advocating for mental health policies in your community or workplace.
4. Advocate for Change
Promote mental health at work or school: Encourage your workplace or school to provide mental health resources, host workshops, or offer mental health days.
Advocate for policy changes: Support movements that push for increased funding for mental health services, improved access to mental health care, and anti-stigma campaigns.
Engage in mental health activism: Share your story (if comfortable) to break the silence around mental health and reduce stigma in your community.
5. Participate in Events
Join World Mental Health Day campaigns: Many organizations host events like walks, talks, workshops, and fundraisers. Participate in these activities to show solidarity and support.
Wear green: Green is the color for mental health awareness. Wearing green on World Mental Health Day can be a simple way to show support.
6. Seek Professional Help If Needed
If you're struggling with your mental health, use this day as a reminder to seek professional help. Therapy, counselling, or speaking with a mental health expert can be transformative.
Ideas to Celebrate:
Organize a virtual mental health workshop.
Take part in a local charity run or walk for mental health.
Create a calming space at home for mindfulness and relaxation.
World Mental Health Day is about spreading awareness, compassion, and understanding around mental health issues.
