Celebrating World Mental Health Day

October 10^th marks World Mental Health Day. In effort to remove the stigma surrounding mental health, organizations across the globe dedicate time to create awareness about mental health and its challenges.

Whether or not you personally face mental health challenges, you can join us in honoring and celebrating the day through activities and advocacy – whether it’s on social media, in your own personal practices, or by participating in conversations surrounding mental health. 

The Importance of Mental Health

World mental Health Day was established on 1922 by the World Federation for Mental Health. It has been observed each year since then, with the goal of raising awareness about mental health issues and how to create lasting change. Unfortunately, the need for mental health awareness is significant. The subject is still far too taboo, with many feeling the need to hide their conditions and prioritize anything from work to family and friends over one’s own wellbeing, especially in times of struggle.

How to Celebrate

Of course, it is up to the individual how they would like to celebrate World Mental Health Day. However, the first and most important way to celebrate is to emphasize visibility. This could entail sharing your own mental health struggles on social media or checking in with loved ones to see how they’re doing. Connection is key to wellbeing. Being a part of a community that supports one another and allows for friendship, compassion and support can make such a positive difference for both your own mental health and that of others.

It’s important to understand that life has ebbs and flows. Like work, relationships, and friendships, mental health takes effort. Things will not always be easy, so it’s important to foster a network of people who support you while also setting up self-care practices you can lean on when things get tough. Caring for yourself and getting help when you need it is a part of growing, learning, adapting and developing capabilities to deal with all kinds of challenges that emerge in life.

Better yet – We asked our team to share some insights into how they take care of their mental health to inspire you to do just the same. Check out their responses below and take time for yourself today!

• “I prioritize my mental health on hard days by making time to check in on myself. If a day is particularly hard it’s important to take inventory and ask ‘Why is this day so hard?’ and ‘Is there anything I can do to make myself feel better?’ Sometimes there isn’t anything you can do but just knowing what may be causing your distress might be helpful.”

• “I mostly talk to family and friends. Maybe go out and do errands or just get a cup of coffee because sometimes I need to get a change of scenery.”

• “I check in on my mental health every day by making sure all my basic needs are met. For example, if I am feeling rough, I will check to see if I have eaten or if I need to drink some water or even go for a quick walk. I find that if you’re taking care of yourself physically it can help you mentally.”

• “My favorite way to de-stress during the workday is by taking short breaks, whether it’s a short walk or coffee break. On days off, I love to bake, hike, and spend time with friends.”

• My favorite way to de-stress and keep my mental health in check daily is to take a hot power yoga class. The heat and vigorous movement force me to focus on my breath, helps clear my mind, and resets my body. I’m blessed that the studio I go to has such an awesome community and amazing teachers. We all support each other unconditionally. The moving meditation combined with the deep sense of community is something special that I cherish. It helps me be the best version of myself so that I can better be there for those in my life at home and work.”

• “I have an extensive skincare and dental routine that I have reframed as a ‘spa treatment.’ Each night, at 9pm, my alarm reminds me that it’s time to wind down. I put on calming music and take my time giving myself the royal treatment. It takes about 30 minutes, but I leave the bathroom feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to take on my final tasks before bed.”