WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2024

October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, a time for the global community to reflect on the importance of mental health and work towards breaking the stigma that still surrounds it.  This year’s theme, “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right”, reminds us that mental well-being is just as crucial as physical health, and that everyone deserves access to support and understanding.

While raising awareness is vital, the message doesn’t stop there.  Mental health is something we should be mindful of year-round.  One of the most important things we can do for ourselves and for each other is to simply ‘check in’.  Many people who are struggling don’t always show obvious signs, and this was powerfully demonstrated in a video released by Norwich City Football Club last year.

In this thought-provoking video, Norwich City FC highlighted a core truth about mental health – You don’t always see what someone is going through.  The video begins with two fans sitting in their chairs in the stand with one visibly unhappy and another who is almost the absolute opposite.  The person who looked happy and full of life is the one who as the video unfolds, we see were not okay and instead a front was being displayed.

It’s a stark reminder that mental health struggles often remain hidden.  Just because someone appears to be ‘fine’ doesn’t mean they aren’t going through something.  We can all wear masks – whether to hide our pain, avoid being a burden, or because we feel that no one would understand.  This is why regular check-ins, even with people who seem to be doing well, are so important.

Here’s the Norwich City FC video, which drives home this message in a simple yet emotional way:

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. You are not alone. The below organisations are wonderful:

→ Samaritans call 116 123 (24/7)

→ Mind call 0300 123 3393 (0900-1800hrs, Weekdays)

→ Campaign Against Living Miserably, call 0800 585 858 (1700-0000hrs, Every Day)

→ Shout UK Text “Shout” to 85258 (24/7)

→ #ANDYSMANCLUB have men’s talking groups in over 190 locations around the UK