Today marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week.

Slowly, slowly we’re beginning to unpack some of the harsh realities of mental health disorders and as we do so we realise the urgent need for improved mental health care.

So, what small things can we do this week to contribute?

1. Look after those around you.

2. Care for yourself.

3. Support networks and charities that work on a large scale to support those suffering.

We’ve all probably known people subject to mental health struggles, whether that be through addiction, trauma, grief or a chemical imbalance and letting them know you are there for them can make a real difference. Sometimes it can be difficult, as the nature of a mental health disorder alters a person's thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors, often in distinct ways (Bethesda; 2007). This can be hard to deal with, however with small gestures you may help someone to realise that you’re there for them- literally, send someone a message if you haven’t spoken for a while, do your old neighbour’s shopping if you suspect they may be alone; reach out in whatever way- it might just make their day.

Look after yourself! As boring as it may sound, put back that bottle of vino and grab a cuppa tea, drink a pint of water, have a candlelit bath, read a book, watch a nice film, zoom a friend, go on a walk, make a delicious dinner, plant some quick growing herbs, stretch, have a full 8 hours sleep, write a list of everything you’re grateful for…I don’t know, whatever feels good and wholesome to you- make time for YOU! You’ll struggle to help others if your own head’s in a scramble!

There is so much that we still don’t understand about what may lead someone to feeling an inescapable sense of powerlessness and/or distress and supporting those that are working so hard on this is essential.

‘Mind’ do incredible work in helping people who may feel alone. There’s so many people in this pandemic who are vulnerable to feeling helpless; charities like these are so, incredibly important. If you have a spare £5, let’s help them to do their thing!:

https://www.mind.org.uk/donate