World Mental Health Day 10 October

Every year on  10 October, the UK, along with the rest of the world, marks World Mental Health Day. It's a crucial day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues, reducing the stigma surrounding them, and mobilising efforts in support of mental well-being. This year, as we navigate ever-changing landscapes, the message feels more important than ever: mental health is a universal human right.

In the UK, World Mental Health Day provides a powerful platform for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together. It's a chance to reflect on our own mental health, check in with loved ones, and advocate for better mental health services and support.

Why is World Mental Health Day so important?

Tackling Stigma: Despite some progress, stigma around mental illness still exists. Many people feel unable to talk openly about their struggles, fearing judgment or discrimination. World Mental Health Day helps to normalise conversations about mental health, reminding us that it's okay not to be okay and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Raising Awareness: The day shines a spotlight on the prevalence of mental health conditions. One in four adults in the UK experiences a mental health problem in any given year. Understanding this helps us to foster empathy and build a more supportive society.

Promoting Support Services: It's an opportunity to highlight the incredible work done by charities, healthcare professionals, and community groups across the UK who provide vital mental health support. From helplines to therapy services, these organisations are lifelines for many.

Advocating for Change: World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder to policymakers and government bodies that mental health must be prioritised. It fuels campaigns for increased funding, improved access to services, and a more equitable mental health system.

This year's theme, "Mental health is a universal human right," resonates deeply in the UK. It emphasises that everyone, regardless of their background, circumstances, or location, deserves access to quality mental healthcare and the opportunity to live a mentally healthy life. It challenges us to look at the systemic barriers that prevent people from accessing the support they need and to work towards dismantling them.

What can you do on World Mental Health Day and beyond?

Start a Conversation: Reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague. Ask how they're truly doing. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make a huge difference.

Educate Yourself: Learn more about different mental health conditions and how to support someone who might be struggling. Mental health charities in the UK offer a wealth of resources.

Prioritise Your Own Well-being: Take time for self-care. This could be anything from a walk in nature to practising mindfulness, reading a book, or spending time with loved ones.

Advocate for Change: Write to your local MP, participate in campaigns, or simply share information on social media to help keep mental health on the public agenda.

World Mental Health Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that together, we can create a more understanding, compassionate, and supportive society for everyone in the UK. Let's use this day to talk, to listen, and to act.

Support at The Brightwell

The Brightwell is a warm, friendly, inclusive space, as well as having a safe and supportive environment.

As well as being able to talk to any member of staff or volunteer, we also provide one-to-one counselling through Sasha Leigh and a Carers Support Group, which holds regular meetings and has an information point next to the Café.

Our members often find the social space we offer an opportunity to have an open chat with those who may be in the same or a similar situation and can empathise or appreciate any concerns or worries that you may have.

If you would like to talk to someone in a private area, on a one-to-one basis, please discuss with a member of staff or a volunteer, and we would be pleased to help.

You can call us on 01454 201686, email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk.

To find out more about our Specialist Clinics, please visit

www.thebrightwell.org.uk/therapies/specialist-clinics