World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day is an annual awareness day observed every 10th October. Its the chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling. Talking about our mental health can help us cope better with life’s ups and downs.

Everyone has mental health, its how we're feeling inside, or how we are emotionally. This day encourages everyone to look after their own mental health and those of others through a greater understanding and empathy. It throws a spotlight on this topic, and gives people the opportunity to seek support from the many services that are offered.

Good mental health means being generally happy and feeling good inside. We might feel calm or content and are accepting of ourselves, making life easier to manage. But if you go through a period of poor mental health you might find the ways you're often feeling become difficult, or even impossible, to cope with. This can feel just as bad as a physical illness, or even worse.

Five steps to improving your mental health

1. Spend time with family and friends to build your support network and connect with others, this might be in person, on the phone or online.

2. Take time to reflect on the things going on around you and how they bring you joy. Savouring the moment can help you feel more positive about life.

3. Learn a new skill, whether its crafting, cooking or DIY, as it can give extra boosts of confidence, and can help you to feel more productive and more in control of your life.

4. Exercise a great way to boost your mood and mind, and can help to manage stress and anxiety, as well as helping you achieve better sleep.

5. Helping others and volunteering your time can be a great way to build your self-esteem, find a sense of achievement, and help you feel like you’re part of a wider community, ultimately making you happier.

There are services and organisations out there that you can speak with to get help and advice with mental health problems:

• NHS Talking Therapies - Find an NHS talking therapies services - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

• The Samaritans offer 24/7 support - call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.uk

• Text SHOUT to 85258 for 24/7 free, confidential support

• Anxiety UK has helplines available Monday - Friday 9.30am-5.30pm on 03444 775 774

• MIND offers helplines to offer a safe space for you to talk about your mental health, open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday - 0300 102 1234

• Better Health Wellbeing tips - Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

You can visit your doctor, who can help you work out what kind of support you need and introduce you to the right mental health service. Make an appointment today.

If it is an emergency or you need urgent help, call 999 or go to A&E. You can also get urgent help from 111 online or by calling 111.