World Mental Health Day
You may be thinking why is a mobile optician writing about a blog about mental health. Well we are just as passionate about mental health as we are about eye health. We wanted to highlight this significant day in the calendar and remind you why mental health is important, especially at this difficult time with the COVID pandemic.
What is the theme for World Mental Health Day 2021?
This year’s World Mental Health theme is ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World.
This theme, chosen for 2021, will highlight that access to mental health services remains unequal, with between 75% to 95% of people with mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries unable to access mental health services at all, and access in high income countries is not much better. Lack of investment in mental health disproportionate to the overall health budget contributes to the mental health treatment gap.
Source: World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) https://wfmh.global/2021-world-mental-health-global-awareness-campaign-world-mental-health-day-theme/
This year by highlighting the services available it is hoped that ‘mental health care for all’ can become a reality. There is lots of support out there internationally which is where WFMH is involved and more relevantly and locally the NHS have great support and resources, including their Every Mind Matters Campaign. This important campaign is designed to empower adults to take simple self-care actions to look after their mental health and well-being. We thought we would support this vital cause by highlighting some things you can do on a daily basis to help your mental health.
Tips to improve your mental health
- Eat Well – eating a healthy diet of nutritious foods and drinks is not only good for your physical health but does wonders for your mental health because it helps your brain and other organs function well and you stay feeling positive. Foods containing sugar and caffeine can have an opposite/negative effect.
- Keep fit and active – Regular exercise is a great mood booster as it improves your self esteem and concentration. It can help you with your sleep and this can help you feel so much better.
- It’s good to talk – Talking about your feelings with someone can help you deal with things. Even just that social connection of spending time with friends, family, your neighbours can help you deal with and solve any problems you have. If you can’t meet up with someone then touch base with them with a call, text, email etc, it will really help your emotional wellbeing.
- Do things you enjoy – Do you enjoy, arts, crafts, puzzles, sport, bike ride? Do something in your daily lives to take your mind off of things…it will help you de-stress and will give you a sense of achievement.
Need more mental health support
If you feel like you need more support with your mental health issues and are struggling with difficult times then please contact your mental health services who would be able to help:
- Call your GP and discuss how you are feeling with them so they can help
- Call The Samaritans on 116 123 if you are struggling, they are available 24/7
- Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for confidential 24/7 crisis text support
A really great resource launched by NHS is their Every Mind Matters campaign.
The impact and experience of the past 18 months has been difficult for us all. That’s why it’s so important to look after our mental health and wellbeing. Better Health-Every Mind Matters will launch a campaign to support the nation’s mental wellbeing, showing the little things we can all do and how these can make a big difference; helping us to lead happier, healthier lives and cope with life’s challenges.
At the heart of the campaign is the free, NHS-approved Mind Plan. By answering five simple questions online, adults will get a personalised mental health action plan with practical tips for helping deal with stress and anxiety, boost their mood, sleep better, and feel more in control.
Search Every Mind Matters to see what works for you.