- Sharing World Mental Health Day content on social media, be it your personal story or resources and statistics from others.
October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of mental health issues worldwide and highlighting the effects of mental illnesses on the lives of those impacted and their loved ones.
First marked in 1992 as a World Federation for Mental Health initiative, today, World Mental Health Day stands as a vital opportunity to bring conversations about mental well-being into the spotlight. Each year, the event focuses on a specific theme within the broader topic of mental health; in 2024, the theme is workplace mental health – a highly topical focus given the recent array of brands saying they want employees back in the office full-time.
As the pace of modern life continues to feel like it's ever-increasing, and many of us carry around stress like a loyalty card that's forever available to stamp, understanding mental health and well-being has never been more vital.
Let’s explore how you can support your mental health with self-care ideas and be there for those who need it, even if they say they’re good.
4 Self-Care Ideas to Embrace for World Mental Health Day 2024
You know what one of the biggest challenges to our mental health is? Ourselves.
So often, we say we're going to "treat ourselves" to some self-care. But we really ought to see it as a necessity. Try these five self-care ideas to give your well-being the TLC you deserve.
1. Unplug and Reconnect
Our smartphones are basically third limbs – or second brains, you decide – at this stage, but we all need to give our scrolling thumbs a rest.
Make time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
The best thing? Reconnecting can mean whatever you want it to. Read a book, take a walk, sit quietly with your thoughts, journal, or have a "no phones" meet-up with an old friend.
You’ll notice a difference pretty quickly!
2. Move Your Body
Too many of us don’t go for a run because we’re not Olympic 10,000-meter runners or to the gym because we don’t look like Dwayne Johnson.
But not being the best of the best is okay. Whether you embrace a full-on workout or keep it simple with stretching and yoga, any movement helps to boost your mood and reduce stress levels.
And remember, nature is like free therapy, so bonus points if you can do something outside!
3. Practice Mindfulness
Even just a few minutes of actively being present can help you feel like a weight has lifted from your shoulders and help you forget whatever worries you have.
And if you need a little help here, we’ll let you reach for your smartphone for an app like Headspace or Calm so you can find a guided meditation.
Want to do it yourself? Simply sit quietly and focus on nothing but your breathing.
Just be mindful that if you do this often, you'll soon be able to do it for hours – so think about setting a timer!
4. Pamper Yourself
A little pampering can go a long way.
Whether you prefer a long soak in a lavender bubble bath, unclogging your facial pores with cleansing strips, introducing a diffuser and some calming essential oils to your mindfulness routine, or all three, you’ll be giving your mind, body, and soul the love they deserve.
4 Ways to Support the Mental Health of Others
As well as investing in self-care, understanding how to support the mental health of others can help you make a significant difference to the lives of those around you.
Here are four things you can do to support others on World Mental Health Day and all year round.
1. Start a Conversation
Asking someone, "How are you, really?" in person or simply sending a "Hey, how's it going?" message can make a massive difference to people’s lives.
Even if someone doesn’t want to open up, sometimes just the invitation to do so is enough. And if they do want to talk to you, having someone who listens can be genuinely life-changing.
2. Encourage People to Seek Help
If you notice someone is struggling, but you feel like they don’t want to open up, encourage them to seek support, be that via therapy or online or in-person groups.
And if you feel uncomfortable or are unsure how to broach the subject, present it as something you’d do if you needed help yourself.
3. Offer Your Time
Actions speak louder than words.
While telling someone you’re there for them can act as support, showing them that you are tangibly there for them goes a step further. Insist on grabbing coffee or buying lunch for a friend who feels isolated or like they're always busy with one thing or another. Look after a tired friend's children so they can enjoy some of the self-care tips we shared earlier.
Time is your most valuable asset and gift. Give it generously and as much as you can.
4. Educate Yourself
Preparing yourself to support others is perhaps the very best thing you can do this World Mental Health Day. Read up about the most common mental health conditions, learn the signs that someone is struggling, and understand the help available for yourself and others, and you'll be in a fantastic position to help those who need it.
As a starting point, check out the guidance and resources on websites like Mental Health America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
4 Ways to Raise Awareness on World Mental Health Day
This World Mental Health Day, your actions can also help raise mental health awareness among others you don't know directly.
Consider:
- Hosting a mental health awareness event where people can share experiences, even organizing and inviting people to a "safe space" to come and talk, could make a massive difference.
- Donate to mental health charities, particularly if there are any close to your heart for a specific reason.
- Wear green, the color of mental health awareness, and make people aware of why you're doing so.
Honor the Day, Honor Your Mind
While we’ve written this guide inspired by World Mental Health Day 2024, supporting your mental health and that of others isn’t a one-and-done deal.
Whether you’re practicing self-care ideas and learning how you can better support your mental health or trying to understand what you can do for others, make a commitment to yourself and those around you to create a culture of compassion and open conversation.
Every small step counts.
Discover our full range of personal care products that you can buy to pamper yourself or as a treat to others.
