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Good Morning,
Happy Chooseday! Today, we celebrate World Mental Health Day - an opportunity to come together as a community and unite behind the theme 'Mental health is a universal human right'. [1]
The World Health Organization states that good mental health is imperative to our overall health and well-being, yet 'one in eight people globally are living with mental health conditions, which impact their physical health, their well-being, how they connect with others, and their livelihoods.' [1]
This Chooseday, we invite you to join us in learning more about your right to mental health, how to uplift others in protecting their mental health and how to choose your mental health every day.
The Power of the Mind
Our mental well-being is as crucial as our physical health. It shapes how we think, feel, act, and interact. But life's busyness can sometimes make it easy to neglect. Just as we'd nurse a cold or a sprained ankle, our minds deserve the same tender, loving care. Remember, it's okay to not be okay. But what's important is to acknowledge, understand, and seek ways to feel better.
Check In to Check Up!
There's strength in vulnerability. In an era of curated online personas, it's transformative to ask a mate genuinely, "How are you?". A simple check-in can make all the difference in someone's day, week, or even life. Let's make it a habit.
Nature’s Therapy
Ever noticed that a walk in the woods or a day at the beach can feel like a mini mental vacation? Nature has this uncanny ability to soothe our minds. The chirping birds, rustling leaves, or even the rhythmic sound of waves can be incredibly therapeutic. This week, dedicate some time to embrace the great outdoors. Your mind will thank you!
Choose to Move!
Exercise isn't just about those physical gains. A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry Journal found that people who exercise report 43% fewer days of poor mental health a month compared to non-active individuals. [2] Whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga session, or dancing like no one's watching, let's pledge to get moving this Mental Health Day!
Find Your Inner Zen
Meditation is the art of training your mind. It doesn't require mountain retreats or hours of silence. Just a few minutes daily can drastically improve focus, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of peace. There are plenty of apps and online resources to get started, so why not give it a try?
Here are our Top 5 Mental Health charities to support this World Mental Health Day:
Beyond Blue is an independent, not-for-profit organisation working to reduce the impact of anxiety, depression and suicide in Australia.
First Step is a not-for-profit organisation that specialises in addiction and mental health treatment.
Orygen delivers practical, real-world solutions that young people can access when and where they need it.
Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds, along with assistance in promoting young peoples’ wellbeing.
ReachOut is the leading online mental health service in Australia supporting young people during tough times.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, your mental well-being is paramount.
So this Chooseday, and every day henceforth, let's make a conscious effort to prioritize our minds. Because when we're mentally fit, we're better equipped to spread goodness and positivity in the world.
Choose your mental health today, and make every day a journey of self-love and care.
Thanks for choosing to do good this Chooseday.
Giving Solutions,
the GoodCompany team.
[1] World Health Organization: World Mental Health Day 2023 - Mental health is a universal human right; 2023. Available from: World Mental Health Day 2023 - Mental health is a universal human right (who.int)
[2] The Lancet Psychiatry: Association between physical exercise and mental health in 1.2 million individuals...; 2018. Available from: Association between physical exercise and mental health in 1·2 million individuals in the USA between 2011 and 2015: a cross-sectional study - The Lancet Psychiatry.
Know someone who will benefit from a Chooseday mindset?
