World Mental Health Day

Every year on the 10^th October people come together to raise awareness around mental health issues and try to create positive changes that support and improve mental health. The day provides an opportunity for us all to add to the wider conversation around mental health and engage with ways to address the stigma that can surround the subject and become more aware of our own health and those around us. According to research conducted by mind:

‘…we know that more than half of adults (60%) and over two thirds of young people (68%) said their mental health got worse during lockdown.’

Many people have developed new mental health related problems as a result of the pandemic which could have a lasting effect going forward. We could all find ourselves under pressure, from lockdown, to furlough, to losing a job. These can affect each one of us in different ways and it is normal to feel uncertain about what is to come. We can put in place things to make positive changes to help with the stress of our new everyday lives. Having the right support and information can be a great start to leading you down to a more positive place.

This year for World Mental Health Day WHO (World Health Organisation) will be hosting a global event, which will include: world leaders, mental health experts and celebrity guests. You will get to hear about how WHO is helping improve mental health, international leaders about why they are making metal health their priority, hear first-hand why artists have become mental health ambassadors, listen to stories about peoples own experiences and performances from musicians.

You will be able to tune in on all social platforms:

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok channels

Start time: London: 3pm New York: 10am Geneva: 4pm

WHO also have a playlist of videos you can watch to understand more about mental health and how it can affect people in different ways.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ti7OIMq7V9I&list=PL9S6xGsoqIBXrjS3UWKPXlo29PWI4X7Ez

We have a few articles and contacts below if you would like some tips and insights into ways you can help with your own mental health.

Free2learn article:

https://free2learn.org.uk/the-power-of-hobbies-and-their…/ – The positive effects of hobbies https://free2learn.org.uk/how-to-stay-focused-or…/ – staying inspired while working from home

https://free2learn.org.uk/5-tips-to-good-wellbeing-while…/ – Tips for wellbeing while job searching

https://free2learn.org.uk/how-to-help-with-the-return-to…/ – returning to work after being furloughed

Other helpful resources:

MIND LINE