Today, the 10th of October marks World Mental Health Day.
Held on the same day every year. It's main focus for 2019 being suicide prevention. Every 40 seconds, someone loses their life to suicide. It’s the UK's biggest killer of men under 45. There are many different factors that can lead to suicidal feelings. These thoughts can affect anyone. Mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia can make a person more likely to have suicidal thoughts - as well as other reasons like bereavement, isolation, debt or job security.
Not that we need just a day, but today is dedicated to destigmatising mental health issues. It's also about taking steps, wether big or small, to make sure those that do suffer, don't go through it alone. So, with that being said, check-in on that strong friend, your funny friend and the quiet one. You’re not going to make them not depressed, but you can be useful and support them.
Mental health awareness is more prevalent than ever. Depression and anxiety are becoming easier to talk about, but others, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder still hold a strong stigma, making them even harder to speak about. We want to try break down these stigmas, and help those who are struggling.
Some days can be difficult to function, or even get out of bed. To anyone going through this stage, you're not alone. If you didn't manage to roll out of bed and get dressed today, that's ok, don't beat yourself up. Tomorrow is a new day.
Can you improve your own mental wellbeing?
WMHD, the perfect opportunity to show support for better mental health and to consider if there’s anything you can do to improve your own mental wellbeing. This is where self-care comes in...
A term we hear a lot, but what does it actually mean? Google will tell you it’s “the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health”.
One practice being centered on setting goals and boundaries for one’s self-improvement. The other is rooted in self-indulgence, often costing money. It doesn’t have to. It also doesn’t mean Instagramming your bubble bath and putting a face mask on with the hashtag #SelfcareSunday.
Everyone has their own definitions of self-care and what it means to them. If you love a good bath and the above is you, please definitely continue to do this. If it's still a face mask but with a big bowl of pasta. Do that! We’re not robots, you should let yourself take a time out.
Everyone has their own definitions of self-care and what it means to them. There’s no ‘perfect way’. No right or wrong answer really. Other than doing whatever it is that makes you smile and feel good. It’s always handy to know how others keep themselves in check.
Understanding what self-care should or could mean is valuable, as this differs for everyone. So here’s some advice and tips...
"Slow down, tune out and take some time for yourself"
Shaun Donnelly from Manimalist
Ever find yourself doing one task but thinking about four of five other things at the same time? Then, at the end of the day, you feel like you’re going to self-implode with too much information. It’s ok to slowwww downnnn. Put the do not disturb sign on, even if only for an hour like Shaun…
‘‘It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, so it’s important to slow down from time to time, tune out and take some time for yourself.
Recently, I’ve started getting out of bed an hour earlier to give myself a slower start to the day. Replacing a mad dash to the office with a freshly brewed coffee, relaxing music and a flick through a good book means I’m ready for the day not feeling anxious or stressed.’’
"Stay organised"
Jodie Rogers from Jodie Melissa
"It’s important to know what works for you. Self-care can look different to everyone.
For me, self-care is having a day at home to get organised and feel like I’m on top of things. I don’t get much joy or recharge from not really doing much but staying active and feeling on top of things is really what makes me feel good."
Being organised can mean different things to all of us. Some people are crazy organised and they have to be, or they start to feel scattered and busy minded. Others are a little more chill and happy to go with the flow. Do what works for you. If it means making a list on a Saturday morning or the night before - do it. If it means throwing your list in the bin, do that!
"Say no when you need too"
Lauren Cook from The Sunny Girl
Do you get FOMO* or JOMO*? Either way, it’s ok to say no. In reality, you’re probably not missing out on much and there will always be another night out. If you’re not feeling up to it, go ahead. Say no… you are not really obligated to do something to someone. Listen to Lauren...
"Self-care can mean saying no. We often think self-care means adding more to our schedule when it actually can mean turning things down.
When you’re overbooked and exhausted, your self-care might look like staying home, eating a meal you enjoy and having some peace and quiet. Self-care is whatever you need it to be.’’
*fear of missing out
*joy of missing out
"Energy is contagious"
Ashleigh Turner, mental health expert from hero
"Energy is contagious. Evaluate the energy you surround yourself with. If you find someone to be a really positive influence on you and you come away feeling energised, make the effort to catch up with them more often."
Sometimes when you're stuck in a mental rut, you tend to isolate yourself. Ashleigh has a good point...
Talk to people that make you feel better. Try to focus these conversations on something exciting or positive. Also, feel free to avoid converstaions that you know may upset you or rage you further.
Call on your people and share your self-care tips.
"Step Outside Your Comfort Zone"
Alex Graff from Make the Uncomfortable Comfortable
Ever done something you were scared of and then afterwards felt SO alive? It’s good to be scared from time to time. It gives us a rush of adrenaline and all the positive feels.
"In my opinion, self-care is doing things that reminds you of your passions, abilities and worth. It’s doing what you love and figuring out what you’re amazing at. You can’t stay in your comfort zone and expect life to be the best it can be".
If bungee jumping and sky diving are your thing. Why not try a new class or going somewhere you’ve never been before? Stepping out of your comfort zone may just give you a brand-new passion!
Every mind matters
It's becoming less taboo to talk openly about therapy and mental illness helping people feel less alone.
Improving your mental health should be at the top of everyone's agenda. The new ‘Every Mind Matters’ campaign is all about helping everyone manage and maintain their mental health, as good mental health makes a difference!
Let's continue to prioritise self care, it’s awesome... True self-care is figuring out what works for you, and honoring what your needs are, working within your limitations. Caring for yourself, to make YOU your top priority.
We understand mental health is as important as physical health. Our developments will have space so you can focus on you. Space to connect. Space to be active. Space to reflect and talk.
Don't need to suffer in slience. It's never too early or late to talk.