It is World Mental Health Day on 10^th October 2020.  Every year this day is recognised, however this year is perhaps even more significant, with 1 in 4 people each year affected by mental health; the impact of Coronavirus has seen the number affected rise.

2020 has been a challenging year for everyone; whether you have remained working, been furloughed or found yourself in a position where you are out of work.  Mental health is affected by many factors; work is only one part of life but can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing.  So, what can we do to improve our mental health?

Mind offer 6 helpful tips:

• Relax and reduce stress – find what works for you!
• Find ways to be creative – Maybe a new hobby?
• Spend time in nature – Being outside costs nothing and is proved to improve mental health.
• Connect to others – we might not always be able to speak face to face, but keep communicating via phone or video calls where you can. 
• Look after your physical health – When the gyms shut everyone had to find different ways to exercise! Looking after your physical health does not just mean the gym; you might find a new passion for cooking certain foods, cycling, running or find things to do at home yoga or the nation’s favourite Joe Wicks!
• Try and get enough sleep

We know that some of those tips are easier said than done when your mental health is affected but it is about small steps and doing what you feel comfortable with.

If you are struggling you are not alone; speak to someone you trust, whether that be friends, family, doctors, Mental Health First Aider at work, HR, Line Manager or a mental health charity such as Mind.

This year on Mental Health Day it is important to remember that “sometimes we say we’re fine when we’re not fine”. This year Time to Change are promoting #asktwice.  If someone says that they’re fine but you are not convinced, ask again!  If this year has taught us anything it is to be kind and to remember that anyone can be affected by mental health challenges.

#asktwice