Today, 10th October, marks World Mental Health Day, highlighting global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. First celebrated in 1992, the World Federation for Mental Health champion the day, spreading awareness via its vast number of members and contacts in more than 150 countries.
Celebrities including Zayn Malik, Prince Harry, Nicole Scherzinger, Stephen Fry, and Lady Gaga have all been speaking about their own experiences with mental illness, highlighting its prevalence and indiscriminate nature.
Talking about mental health can be challenging, not least of all because it can be an emotional and personal subject to approach. According to Mind (the mental health charity), approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year, and in England 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (such as anxiety and depression) in any given week. This alarming statistic reflects changes in the way we are now living, with challenges faced from money, work, and a faster pace of living.
One thing the statistics do show us, however, is that it’s important to remember you are not alone in this. Mental Health should be discussed and tackled in the same way physical health is, and support given to both those directly affected and those helping to care for others that may be suffering. No condition should be ignored and it is our passion to help raise awareness of the support available to anyone wishing to access it.
The BBC are reporting on the benefits of physical activities for mental health; linked to the release of serotonin, things such as running are beneficial to both physical and mental wellbeing and have been proven to help ease stress and anxiety.
Organisations such as Mind have a wealth of resources for those seeking help including wellbeing tips, ideas for staying well at work, help for everyday living, and contact details for external agencies providing support. Tips include simple ideas that anyone can take on board such as:
- Taking time out to focus on you
- Ensuring you get enough sleep
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet
- Trying relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or meditation
- Speak to trusted friends, colleagues, and family members
If you need support, don’t forget you can also speak with your Showcase Assessor or contact our Safeguarding Officer, Ellen, at any time; with a wealth of training and experience they can help you to find the support you need.
Team Showcase