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Uzone.id — Over the past few years, we’ve all faced significant challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic and its far-reaching effects—ranging from physical and emotional isolation to uncertainty about the future—have taken a toll on mental health worldwide.
As a result, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues have surged due to prolonged social distancing and restricted interactions. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or simply feeling low, World Mental Health Day serves as a gentle reminder to take small but meaningful steps toward improving your well-being.
Celebrated every year on October 10th, this global campaign emphasizes the importance of mental health and encourages us to care for our own mental well-being while supporting others. It’s more than just a yearly event; it’s a crucial opportunity to prioritize mental wellness—for others, and for yourself.
Wanna take part in this campaign? Here are meaningful actions you can do to honor this World Mental Health Day!
Educate yourself about mental health
Take this day as an opportunity for you to learn more about mental health, including the condition and the stigma. You can watch documentaries, read articles or books–or follow mental health organizations on social media.
Even the World Health Organization (WHO) offers plenty of resources about mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and more.
Or, you can take a bigger step by joining the mental health awareness events to know more about it directly.
Many organizations also host events, webinars, and workshops during World Mental Health Day, they do it to raise awareness and to encourage people–like you. You can look for local or virtual events where you can participate in discussions, learn from experts, or connect with others who care about mental health.
Start a conversation about mental well-being (talk and listen)
One of the best ways to reduce the stigma around mental health is to talk about it openly. Sadly, many people feel uncomfortable sharing their struggles, but starting a conversation can help break that barrier.
“Simply talking to someone sympathetic in your life about your mental health challenges can help reduce your stress and improve your mood,” quoted from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Based on the same reports, every year, one out of five adults experience a mental illness, and one out of six youth experience a mental health challenge.
By talking openly about mental health, you take part in normalizing the topic and encourage others to do the same. You can start by checking in with a friend or family member. Ask how they’re doing, and listen.
“We’ve always known that there is angst and stress during adolescence. Now people are listening,” said Alison Bryant Ludden, professor of psychology, quoted from Holy Cross Magazine.
If you feel comfortable, share your own experiences with mental health. The more people talk about it, the easier it becomes for others to seek help when they need it.
“You don’t know how much it (talking) affects you and the people around you. You don’t know what others are experiencing. It’s (mental health challenges) more common than you think, and we need to make sure talking about it is normalized,” said Caroline Hanson, one of the survivors.
Practice self-care (touch some grass)
Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. It’s about doing things that help you feel good mentally, physically, and emotionally.
“Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. This can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact,” quoted from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
On World Mental Health Day, take time to do something for yourself, whether it’s going for a walk, reading a book, or just taking a break from social media.
30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health, or a balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. You can start minimizing your caffeine and alcohol, or junk food and start eating clean.
Social media detox
Social media can sometimes contribute to stress and anxiety, especially when you’re constantly comparing yourself to others. According to a study by the Royal Society for Public Health, 70% of teens reported that social media makes them feel more anxious.
“If you’re spending a lot of time on social media and feeling sadness, dissatisfaction, frustration, or loneliness, it may be time to re-examine your relationship with your online presence,” quoted from UC David Health.
On World Mental Health Day, consider taking a break from scrolling through Instagram or Twitter. Instead, focus on real-life connections, whether it’s spending time with friends, and family, or just enjoying some quiet time alone.
Take a mental health day
Based on Zippia Career Experts, more than half of workers do not use all their paid leave. Little did they know, that taking a day off can increase life satisfaction, improve mental well-being, reduce heart disease risks, and reduce anxiety and depression.
The best thing you can do on World Mental Health Day is take care of your mental health by giving yourself a break.
Taking a mental health day means setting aside time to rest, recharge, and focus on your well-being. You don’t have to be feeling overwhelmed to take a day off—self-care is just as important when you’re feeling okay as when you’re stressed.
Become a volunteer or donate to mental health causes
Another great way to do this on World Mental Health Day is by supporting mental health organizations. Many groups offer volunteering opportunities where you can help raise awareness or support people dealing with mental health challenges.
You can also donate to charities like Mental Health America or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to support their work in mental health advocacy.
Volunteering will give you a sense of purpose and allow you to contribute to something bigger than yourself. Even small contributions can have a big impact on someone’s life.
