World Mental Health Day is an annually observed occasion. It’s recognised annually by the World Health Organisation and takes place on 10th October. The importance of this day is massive. It provides a good opportunity for both individuals and organisations to discuss mental health. In doing so, it helps improve awareness around this important topic.
But our mental health is with us every single day, not just once per year. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of 8 World Mental Health Day quotes you can carry with you throughout the year, to help in even the toughest of times.
Why Awareness Surrounding Mental Health is Important
In 2022 (in the United Kingdom) we’re living through a mental health crisis. That’s not us being hyperbolic, that’s simply fact. According to The Health Foundation, “data from the Office for National Statistics … forewarns of a growing mental health crisis in the UK.”. It’s estimated that around 1 in 4 people in the UK will suffer from a mental health problem each year.
It’s only through increased awareness that there can then be increased action. And action is ultimately what we want. Whether we’re struggling with our personal or professional lives, the more we can open up, the better.
World Mental Health Day Quotes
1. “You can’t fill from an empty cup”
We often spend so much of our energy trying to look out for other people that we neglect ourselves. We need to take time to check in with ourselves and make sure we’re doing OK. Otherwise, how can we possibly have the energy to support others?
2. “Take a break!” – Confidently Anxious
This statement can be easier said than done. But there really is something to be said for just forcing yourself to stop every once in a while. So, go easy on yourself and take that break.
3. “Yesterday is done, and tomorrow is yet to come, so just focus on the now”
This quote touches on the practice of mindfulness. It refers to focusing as much as you can on the present moment. You can’t change what happened yesterday, and you’ve no idea what tomorrow will bring. So, just focus wholly on what’s right in front of you now.
4. “When we’re willing to be honest and vulnerable … we open up the conversation for others to do so, too” – Paul McGregor
It’s remarkable how much easier it is for people to talk about their mental health when they know they’re not alone. Plus, in opening up yourself you’ll be amazed at how much lighter you feel.
5. “I am not alone”
Going through poor mental health can feel like the most isolating thing in the world. “I don’t want to burden people”, “nobody will understand” and “it won’t ever get better”. These are common thoughts experienced by people with poor mental health.
But you’re never a burden, people will understand, and things can get better. Whether it’s your friends, family or even a charity, there’s always someone there for you.
6. “This too shall pass” – Persian adage
When we’re feeling anxious or depressed, that light at the end of the tunnel can seem faint. But those darker periods do fade into the distance over time. It’s about taking things one day at a time, and knowing that, well – “this too shall pass”.
7. “The person you spend most time with is yourself, so nurture that relationship”
No matter how close we are with our family members or friends, you spend the most time with yourself. Simply the way in which we talk to ourselves can have a massive difference.
So, next time you hear that inner self-critic chirping up, go easier on yourself, instead. Become your own best friend – you’ll thank us for it!
8. “Mental health problems don’t define who you are. They are something you experience” – Matt Haig
You are more than what you’re going through. You’re not your anxiety, or your depression. You’re not that horrible person your brain says you are. You’re something so, so much more. Never forget that.
How Our Mental Health Manifests Itself
Different people struggle with different things when it comes to their mental health. In fact, mental health is a uniquely personal thing. However, there are some common traits of poor mental health. These include:
- Feeling tight, nervous or on edge
- Elevated heart and breathing rate
- A sustained sense of listlessness or apathy
- General low mood
- Increased engagement in risky behaviours
- Withdrawing from social circles
- Inability to concentrate
- Lethargy
How Can We Support Family and Friends?
Knowing how to support someone experiencing poor mental health can be hard. There are ways, however, in which you can support a loved one without overwhelming them. According to the NHS, you can:
- Offer reassurance. Let them know you’re there for them, it makes a massive difference.
- Be patient. Mental health issues can be frustrating and tiring for everyone involved. So, be patient with them.
- Provide time to listen. Put time aside to listen to your loved one’s issues.
- Offer practical help. Whether it be helping them get a doctor’s appointment or just going for a bit of retail therapy, offering practical help can be a great support.
- Don’t force it. Whatever you do, don’t force it. As much as you can see that a loved one might be hurting, if they’re not willing to talk about it, then trying to force them will only make them withdraw further.
Summary
Here’s a reminder of what we’ve covered in today’s piece:
- World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10th October. It’s recognised by the World Health Organisation.
- Awareness and action over mental health is more important than ever.
- When times are difficult, remembering the quotes we’ve listed above can help you through.
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