World Mental Health Day (WMHD) 2021
Today marks World Mental Health Day 2021 (WMHD)! The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.
This year’s WMHD comes at a time when our lives begin to feel ‘normal’ again after our daily lives changing considerably as a result of Covid-19 pandemic. For almost two years now, many front-line health workers have faced challenges where they have had to continue providing their professional care in exceptionally difficult circumstances.
Though the challenges haven’t just been for care professionals. Students have had to adapt to taking classes at home with little contact with teachers and peers. Workers have been under pressure with whose livelihoods are threatened with the uncertainty of future jobs and careers and people with mental health conditions, many have experienced even greater social isolation than before…
And this is to say nothing of managing the grief of losing a loved one, where in many cases some have had to grieve without being able to say goodbye. Following the pandemic, it is expected that the need for mental health and psychological support services will be at an all time high.
Here at British Judo, we have made great strides in our work supporting the mental health of our members and athletes alike…
- We have launched an EDI & Wellbeing hub on our website which provides resources and contact details of trained mental health professionals
- As an employer, we have also taken strides in providing more individual support to employees by recruiting a wellbeing lead to develop our mental health strategy whilst facilitating immediate improvements.
- We have co-ordinated mental health first aid training which has seen 12 coaches from across the Association become certified Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA).
How you can get involved…
Check in on your friends and family
Sometimes it’s hard to know if someone is struggling with their mental health as everyone can act differently when they’re going through a tough time. The best way to support a friend or family member is by showing them you’re always there to listen to them.
Speak out and share why you’re fighting!
Whether you use social media or simply speak with friends, family or colleagues – mark WMHD by telling those around you why you’ve joined the fight for mental health and help create a movement for change.
With your help, we can lead the fight for mental health together, while continuing to give support to those of us with a mental health problem.
We are always on the lookout for members to join Mental Health and Wellbeing steering group. You can find out more about the group, by contacting sami.smithson@britishjudo.org.uk
