Mental health is a hot topic that’s important to talk about. While every day is an opportunity to talk about mental health, awareness days like today are some of the best chances to have that conversation. This year’s World Mental Health Day Theme is “Make Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority.”
Here are some ideas for how you can honor World Mental Health Day on your own, or with those you love.
How To Celebrate World Mental Health Day
Ideas For Activities
Attend An Event In Support Of World Mental Health Day.
Mental health shouldn’t be something we think about in silos. By organizing events that encourage people to connect and share their experiences, you can make a real difference in how we see mental health as a whole. Across the globe, events such as Wellness Retreats, Art Workshops, and Walkatons are some ways to celebrate World Mental Health Day.
See if there are any events coming up near you and check out the World Federation For Mental Health Event Calendar .
Share Your Story
While part of spreading awareness means speaking up, another part is sharing your story and experiences in a safe way. I challenge all of you to use your voice, share your story and help each other along the way. I know that may seem like a lot to ask of a person, but don’t worry I’ll go first. Check out my story about living with bipolar disorder.
By Learning
Learn More About Your Own Mental Health
Learning more about your own mental health can be one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself. You’re in the driver’s seat, and now that you know where to look, it’s just a matter of taking action. Try taking an online mental health screening is a great way to learn more about yourself and your own mental health. You can use this opportunity to get professional help by contacting a therapist, journaling about your findings, and talking with a family member or friend who has experience with a certain mental health condition. You’d be surprised how many people in your circle are facing the same things as you.
Listen To Mental Health Podcasts
I get it. It can be hard to reach out for help or even see a therapist. Enter podcasts: These incredible series help us feel seen and understood in ways that can be life-changing. From professionals who have been through the wringer themselves to those who are just like us and don’t let their challenges stop them from making their voices heard.
Die Happy is one of my favorite podcasts because these 2 young Virgin Islanders are hilarious. The hosts, Nia and Bunchie share stories about their lives that are both serious and humorous, which makes for a well-rounded podcast I feel anyone can relate to.
Taking Care of Yourself
Create Strong Self-care Practices.
The road to self-care isn’t just paved with eating chocolate, taking bubble baths, and binge-watching 20 episodes of Friends. That’s all nice and good, but that stuff doesn’t last. It’s about creating strong, proactive self-care practices that give you the energy and space to thrive — no matter what challenges confront you. (Plus, if you need a little push and inspiration — I’ve compiled a list of the best ways you can improve your self-care routine)
Find A Therapist
Do you know what’s fun? – Therapy. And guess what makes it even more fun- finding the RIGHT therapist for you. If you’re serious about your mental health, finding the right therapist can help you tackle challenges, heal trauma, and create a life you love. My comprehensive guide to finding a therapist will help you get on track.
By Sharing Resources With Others
Share Mental Health Resources
Mental health is a universal thing, which means everyone deserves to get the help they need. As the day goes on, think about ways you can make mental health resources accessible on social media.
You can find a few mental health resources at the end of this blog post.
Wear Your Mental Health On Your Sleeve.
Not all heroes wear capes. You can wear your mental health statements for the world to see and it feels good, especially when you know you might see someone wearing something similar to you in the future.
I’ve even designed my own, check out my mental health shirts and knickknacks.
At Work
Advocate For Or Use Mental Health Days Or Paid Time Off
Sadly most companies don’t take mental health days to heart. And even sadder, some don’t prioritize rest, or do much to celebrate the topic. October 10th is an auspicious day to offer more generous paid time off for mental health – because it’s more than a date you can check off your calendar, it’s an opportunity to redefine the modern workplace, boost morale, and show people we care.
Use Your Platform Or Company To Advocate For Mental health
Fundraise for or partner with an organization that supports mental health, launch a social media campaign in honor of World Mental Health Day, publish a blog post about the importance of community-based mental health programs and benefits, or invest in new benefits such as coaching or wellbeing training to help your coworkers be as successful as possible.
At School
Offer Resources And Information To Students.
The earlier the better it is to speak to our children and student about their mental well-being. Start by asking some questions about what they think mental health is and why it matters. Talk about how important mental health is for them as well. Give them a few examples of how those around them struggle with mental illness and ask if they’ve ever felt that way themselves.
Engage In A World Mental Health Day Project At School.
I love the idea of promoting mental health awareness through the use of lime green ribbons! Depending on the color of your school, you could even incorporate a flash mob dance or video skit to help get the idea across. I know! How cool is that?
You can even consider posting up signs all over campus with the words “I appreciate my school counselor” or “I appreciate my social worker” and encouraging students to write on the back of their hands who they are appreciating that moment by doing so! The possibilities are endless.
Get help if you need it.
All the action items and activities above are what you can do right now to get involved in the conversation surrounding mental health. I know how hard it is to seek help when you’re struggling with your mental health. If you are in immediate need of access to help, please contact the following:
BVI:
Emergency Medical Services
911
The Wellness Center Behavioral Health
284-496-0838
Therapy 2 Thrive
284-542-9277
USA:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
suicidepreventionlifeline.org
988
Crisis Text Line
Text CRISIS to 741-741
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