World Mental Health Day, observed annually on Oct. 10, is a global initiative to raise awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts to support mental well-being. Established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for accessible care for all. The 2024 theme “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” highlighting the importance of developing supportive work environments and fostering positive workplace culture.
Mental Health in the United States
In the United States, mental health issues are prevalent, affecting millions of individuals. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 adults live with a mental illness. Conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar disorder are common, yet many people do not seek the help they need due to stigma or lack of resources.
How to Thrive Year-round
As the understanding of mental health grows, so do individuals’ abilities to manage and improve it. Here are some strategies to help you thrive year-round:
- Find the positive. Cultivate a positive mindset by focusing on the good in your life. Practice gratitude by keeping a journal of things you are thankful for, no matter how small.
- Create healthy routines. Establish routines that promote physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition and adequate sleep are foundational to good mental health.
- Own your feelings. Acknowledge your emotions without judgment. Accepting your feelings can help you manage them more effectively and seek help when needed.
- Connect with others. Building and maintaining strong relationships can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Make time for family and friends, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need support.
World Mental Health Day is not just a day of awareness but also a call to action. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking help is OK.
Start Small
When you’re taking action to make a difference, start small. The smaller the shift in your daily routine, the more likely you’ll stick to it. The smallest actions can have a huge positive impact on your mental and physical wellbeing.
Here are a few ideas to move gently in a positive direction.
- Reach out to a neighbor you don’t know. A friendly “Hello, I don’t think we’ve met yet,” can make their day — and yours!
- Reconnect with a friend. Call, text or mail them a card.
- Host a dinner for friends, peers and other people you admire.
- Send a “thinking of you card” to someone in your life who needs a pick-me-up.
- Start that book you’ve been wanting to read.
- Listen to a podcast about mental health, leadership or other self-help topics.
- Subscribe to daily affirmations. Try a mindfulness or meditation app such as Healthy Minds or Smiling Mind.
- Volunteer at a local organization.
- Start a new hobby or pick one back up.
- Offer to pet sit or babysit for a friend who needs a break.
- Schedule a wellness check-up with your doctor.
- Organize a “clean up the neighborhood” day.
- Take a nap. Sleep is critical to your mental health!
- Start journaling.
- Unfollow or hide social media accounts that aren’t relevant to you or bring you down. A virtual housekeeping on your accounts can be refreshing and invigorating.
If needed, reach out for support from a trusted friend, family member, colleague, supervisor, or health professional.
