World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on the 10th of October to address the importance of mental health. The 2023 theme, ‘Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,’ emphasises the need to raise mental health awareness, reduce stigma and advocate for improved mental health support.
1 in every 8 people in the world live with a mental health disorder (source: WHO). Yet, many individuals still continue to face human rights violations such as exclusion, discrimination and limited access to support.
This World Mental Health Day, we explore the causes of poor mental health, workplace mental health and offer five essential tips to raise awareness.
Causes of Mental Health Conditions
Mental health challenges are unique to each individual, with no singular cause. These challenges can be linked to diverse factors, including experiences like abuse, trauma (PTSD), injuries, high stress levels, financial pressures, bereavement and more.
Each person’s mental health journey is distinct, making it essential to approach the topic with sensitivity and recognising the complexity of mental health conditions.
Workplace Mental Health
With many of us spending a significant portion of time at work, providing adequate mental health support in the workplace couldn’t be more important. While work can provide financial stability, routine and personal growth opportunities, it can also be a major contributor to mental health challenges.
Common negative effects of work on mental health include:
- Workplace stress
- Poor work-life balance
- Overwhelm and burnout
- Strained relationships with colleagues
- Discrimination
Recognising and addressing common workplace challenges, while offering necessary support to your employees is essential to creating a culture of better mental health and wellbeing for all.
5 Tips to Promote Mental Health this World Mental Health Day
- Start Conversations: Start open and honest discussions about mental health with friends, family and colleagues. Breaking the silence reduces stigma and encourages others to share their experiences.
- Educate Yourself: It’s important to take the time to learn about various mental health conditions. Building a compassionate understanding of mental health and its associated challenges will enable you to approach conversations with empathy and to have meaningful discussions.
- Support Mental Health Organisations: Utilise mental health organisations to make a real impact on awareness. Share their resources to spread the word or get creative by hosting fundraisers and events that passionately support mental health causes.
- Listening is key: Being a good listener can be incredibly valuable when supporting someone. Demonstrate active listening by giving them your full attention, make eye contact and refrain from interrupting.
- Embrace Self-Care: Dedicate time to self-care practices such as exercise, relaxation and mindfulness to maintain a healthy mind. Remember, taking care of your mental health sets a powerful example for others and reinforces the importance of wellbeing.
At PAM Wellbeing, we understand the profound impact that mental health and wellbeing have on individuals and organisations. We can create a more compassionate, mentally healthy world by embracing these tips and advocating for better support.