18 Oct Mental Health Awareness Month: Prioritising Well-being in a Fast-Paced World
October is Mental Health Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about mental health challenges and promoting well-being. In a world that often celebrates productivity and achievement, it’s easy to forget that mental health is just as important as physical health. Whether it’s stress from work, personal challenges, or the ever-present digital noise, our minds need care and attention too.
Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
One of the biggest barriers to mental well-being is the stigma surrounding mental health issues. For too long, topics like anxiety, depression, and burnout have been treated as personal weaknesses rather than genuine health concerns.
This month serves as a reminder that mental health issues are common and that no one should feel embarrassed or alone in their struggle. Open conversations about mental health can help break the stigma, normalise seeking support, and foster empathy in our communities.
Recognising the Signs of Burnout and Stress
Many of us operate on autopilot, running from one task to the next without considering the impact on our mental health. Over time, the effects of chronic stress can lead to burnout—a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can affect your work and personal life.
Workplace Mental Health
As many of us have transitioned to remote work, the lines between professional and personal life can blur, affecting our mental health in ways we might not initially notice. Balancing productivity and mental wellness is crucial, especially in a remote setting where boundaries can be harder to maintain.
Here are a few tips to navigate your Mental Health and Working from home:
1. Create a Morning Routine
A powerful morning routine helps you transition into work mode. Whether it’s making coffee, walking your dog, or getting dressed, find something that signals to your brain that it’s time to get started. A consistent routine sets the tone for a productive day.
2. Schedule and Take Breaks
Plan breaks throughout the day. Full-time employees typically take a lunch hour and two short breaks. For remote workers, it’s essential to move regularly and give your eyes a break from the screen. Use a timer to ensure you step away and take breaks in their entirety.
3. Take Advantage of Your Perks
Working remotely offers unique opportunities— make the most of the flexibility that comes with remote work. Embrace these perks to maintain a better work-life balance.
4. Leave Home
It’s important to get fresh air and sunlight every day. Even a short walk around the block or sitting outside during lunch can help clear your mind. If possible, switch up your environment by working from a café or library occasionally.
5. Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
It’s natural for focus to drift sometimes. Instead of feeling guilty, remind yourself that this happens to everyone. Balance productivity with self-care and extend this grace to your colleagues—especially during stressful times.
6. Look After Your Mental Health
Remote work can blur the lines between personal and professional life. Set boundaries, take breaks, and seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Stay connected to supportive communities—whether through colleagues, online forums, or even apps that promote mental well-being.
Personal Mental Health
Maintaining mental health in your personal life involves key practices that promote emotional balance and well-being. For example, when you are feeling overwhelmed, prioritising mindfulness, by taking moments to focus on breathing and the present surroundings, can help you to stay grounded and reduce stress. Building and maintaining strong social connections with loved ones provides essential emotional support, which can help strengthen mental resilience. Incorporating regular physical exercise, a balanced diet, and quality sleep into daily routines is vital for overall mental and physical health. Recognising and acknowledging emotions -both positive and negative- ensures a healthy emotional balance. Finally, don’t feel afraid to seek help from professionals who can offer sound and personal advice suited to your needs.
Moving Forward Together
Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to reflect on our mental well-being and the well-being of those around us. Whether you’re facing your own struggles or want to support a loved one, remember that mental health is a journey, not a destination. It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s important to support one another. Let’s take this month to prioritise self-care, practise understanding and compassion.
Sources:
https://www.nih.gov/health-information/emotional-wellness-toolkit
https://weworkremotely.com/how-to-keep-your-mental-health-in-check-when-you-work-from-home
https://www.mind.org.uk/workplace/mental-health-at-work/mental-health-and-working-remotely/
https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/get-organized-20-tips-for-working-from-home