To raise awareness of mental health issues and promote positive change

World Mental Health Day (WMHD) is on 10 October. The aim is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and promote positive change for mental health advocacy.

This year, the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) has chosen to make suicide prevention the main theme of WMHD.

Health Assured have collated several practical tips on how to look after your mental health. These include:

  • Ask for help - If at times, life gets too much for you, it's important that you speak to those close to you. You may find that a few wise words from your partner or a family member is enough to get you back on track.
  • Plenty of sleep - Sleep helps regulate the chemicals in our brain that transmit information. These chemicals are important in managing our moods and emotions and an imbalance in those chemicals can result in us becoming depressed or anxious.
  • Eat well - A balanced diet that is good for your physical wellbeing is also good for your mental wellbeing. Your brain needs a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function well.
  • Avoid alcohol - The numbing effects of drinking are only temporary and can often lead to mental health issues. It's advised that if you do drink, that you stay within the governing bodies recommended unit guidelines.

You can contact Health Assured, the University's Employee Assistance Provider (EAP) via their free 24-hour helpline on:
0800 030 5182
or visit the online support portal.

We also have the University of York Mental Health First Contact (MHFC) network - Mental Health First Contact is a network of trained staff who are a first point of contact if you are experiencing emotional or psychological distress. To find out more and who to contact, visit our MHFC members page.