“Mental health is a universal human right.”
Last Updated on: 16th November 2023, 12:47 pm
The global theme for World Mental Health Day 2023.
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World Mental Health Day is observed each year on the 10th of October. It is a day for us to come together and raise awareness about positive mental health and wellbeing. To promote connection, and reduce the stigma around mental illness.
According to the World Health Organisation in 2019, 1 in every 8 people in the world live with a mental disorder. With a significant increase in the number of people living with anxiety and depression due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candour, and more unashamed conversation.”
Glenn Close
There are events happening world wide, including Ryan Reynolds receiving the Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award. Around Australia significant buildings will be lit up in green, purple and orange, to remind everyone to “Look after your mental health, Australia.” Mental Health Australia is encouraging people to take photos to share as part of the #mentalhealthmosaic
Take time today to connect with those close to you. You could message a friend just to say Hi, stop to have a conversation with your barista, or organise a ‘watercooler’ Teams chat with work colleagues.
Remember also to take time for yourself. Do something you love like getting out for a walk in nature or sitting in the sun reading a book. If you are unsure what to do try the following.
Breathing Exercise
Find a quiet place to sit for a few moments. Sit in a comfortable position of your choice.
Close your eyes (if it feels right to you) or soften your gaze.
Slowly inhale through your nose to a count of 4.
Hold your breath for a count of 4.
Exhale slowly through your nose to a count of 4.
Hold your breath for a count of 4.
Repeat the cycle for several minutes.
When you have finished, sit still for a moment longer and see how you feel. Box breathing is simple a breathing exercise that can be helpful for reducing stress and anxiety.
Today we come together to raise awareness about positive mental health, wellbeing, connection, and reducing the stigma, maybe some actions we do today, we can continue into the coming weeks and months.
