Below are some ideas on how to participate in World Mental Health Day this year. Share your activities at #WorldMentalHealthDay.

1. Donate or Volunteer

There are so many organizations, locally, nationally, and globally, doing impactful and amazing work. Take some time to research a local or national mental health organization that you’d like to support. Your time or money is valuable in continuing to further their mission and raise awareness for mental health.

2. Show Support to A Friend

This has been a recurring message from us this month, and it’s because we believe human connection can make such a positive impact. We encourage you to reach out to anyone, but especially those who you feel have had a particularly hard year. Try starting off the conversation with an open-ended question like “how are you today?” and see where it leads.

3. Make Time For Self Care

Oh yes, we had to mention self-care! It is an important piece in your mental health status making sure you carve out time for those activities you enjoy or that re-energize you. Some of our favorite ‘treat yourself’ activities include trying out a new workout class, picking up a latte from a local coffee shop, learning a new hobby, reorganizing a room in your house, or getting outside for a long relaxing walk. There’s no right or wrong here. Just do something that makes you happy.

4. Do A Random Act of Kindness

We love this one. Random acts of kindness do wonders to spread joy among strangers, friends, or coworkers. It could be buying the coffee for the person behind you or surprising your neighbor with a warm loaf of pumpkin bread. Big or small all acts of kindness can make a difference.

5. Wear a Ribbon to Show Support

Green is the official ribbon color for mental health. On October 10th, wear a ribbon to help spread awareness and start conversations about the cause. If you don’t want to wear a ribbon, you can bring awareness in other ways. Whether in your community, friend circle, or workplace, any discussion is valuable to helping the cause.

6. Reflect On Your Mental Health

Last but certainly not least make sure to check in with yourself. Reflect on your mental health. If you feel like you’re needing extra support, then now might be a great time to reach out to a medical professional like a counselor, therapist, or psychologist.

Fruitland Middle School

World Mental Health Day

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