7 ideas to celebrate World Mental Health Day

This year, World Mental Health Day will be marked on October 10, 2021. Set by the World Federation for Mental Health, this year’s theme is ‘mental health in an unequal world’, focussing on the importance of good mental health for all.

The event plays an incredibly important role in highlighting the importance of opening up about our mental health and breaking down the stigma associated with mental health conditions and related issues.

Over the past 18 months, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on people’s mental health, but particularly health and frontline workers, students, those living alone, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions.

As part of this year’s World Mental Health Day campaign, the World Health Organisation (WHO) hopes to showcase the efforts that some countries are making to scale up quality mental health services and support their people.

What is World Mental Health Day?

Initiated by the WHO, the main purpose of World Mental Health Day is to help to raise awareness of mental health issues in all corners of the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.

The day provides the perfect opportunity for advocates of mental health to talk about their work and encourage people to shout about the cause too!

So, how can you celebrate World Mental Health Day?

Share experiences

A great way to mark World Mental Health Day is to share your own mental health experiences.

All too often, people struggling with their mental health feel they are alone and are embarrassed to talk about how they are feeling. Hearing other people’s experiences can really help – reassuring them that they are not alone and encouraging them to open up about how they are feeling.

Real-life stories can spark important conversations that can ultimately save lives.

Sparking conversations on social media

Sparking conversations on social media is a great way to connect with people and raise awareness of mental health. Whether you share an important article or discuss your own experiences with mental health, this is a great opportunity to spread the word and support people around the globe.

The official hashtag for this year’s event is #WorldMentalHealthDay, so make sure you include that in any of your posts.

Check-in with your own mental health

World Mental Health Day should provide a reminder to check in with your own mental health. Making time to do this regularly will help reduce your stress levels and avoid burnout. Whether you write about how you’re feeling in a journal each day or simply take five minutes to really think about how you feel that day, it can really help your mental wellbeing.

Make a pledge

There’s no better time than World Mental Health Day than to make a pledge about your own mental health, whether that’s to practice self-care more often, make more time for yourself, or remove toxic people or distractions from your life.

Practice Self Care

Self-care plays an incredibly important role in looking after your mental health.

Of course, self-care looks different for everyone. From exercising regularly and eating well through to journaling and seeking professional help when needed, there are lots of ways to keep your mind and body healthy and happy.

Expressing daily gratitude

Expressing daily gratitude is another great way to mark World Mental Health Day!

Another form of self-care and reflection is the perfect way to remind yourself what you are thankful for in your life. Over time, this can help alter any negative thought processes, by teaching yourself the importance of being grateful for what you have in life.

Reach out to loved ones

World Mental Health Day is the perfect time to reach out to loved ones who might be facing their own mental health struggles. Simply asking how they are and reminding them that you are there for them can go a long way.

There are lots of ways to connect with family and friends. Whether you invite your friend out for a coffee, pick up the phone, or even reach out on social media, a simple message can be all someone needs to address their mental health issues.

If you’d like to learn more about supporting people with their mental health in a professional capacity, get in touch to find out more about our counselling and hypnotherapy courses.