We all know the importance of looking after our mental health, but with the busyness of life, it's easy to forget which is why from time to time, we could all do with a reminder to look after ourselves and others mentally.
This year, Mental Health Awareness Week will take place from 15-21 May 2023. This annual event is a chance for the whole of the UK to focus on achieving good mental health.
The week is hosted by the charity Mental Health Foundation, who aim to help people understand, protect and sustain their mental health.
The 2023 Mental Health Awareness Week theme
Every year, Mental Health Awareness Week takes on a different theme. This year, the theme is Anxiety.
Alexa Knight, Director of England for the Mental Health Foundation explains why nature has been chosen as 2023's theme:
"We all feel anxious from time to time. Anxiety is a natural response to the uncertain world around us. For example, in the current cost-of-living crisis, more than a third of adults feel anxious about their financial situation. But it’s important that we recognise and respond when we feel anxious, so that our anxiety doesn’t become overwhelming."
The 2023 Mental Health Awareness Week goals
A number of different charities in the UK are encouraging us to think about different things this week in relation to our anxiety.
• Mental Health UK is asking us to better learn more and understand the difference between anxiety and anxiety disorders so we can confidently identify problems and find the right support for ourselves or our loved ones.
• While the Mental Health Foundation very much understands we're all under strain and stress at the moment due to the cost of living crisis and money worries, they're keen for us all to be able to recognise anxiety and have the tools to be able to stop it in its tracks before it becomes overwhelming.
How to get involved with Mental Health Awareness Week 2023
During Mental Health Awareness Week, Mental Health Foundation is asking us to do three things:
****Challenge your thoughts: When the anxious feelings hit, take control by challenging your thoughts and emotions by writing them down and challenging your thoughts, feelings and emotions.
K****eep a diary: While it might have been years since you kept a diary, the Mental Health Foundation is encouraging us to pick up that pen and start writing in a diary again. By tracking what is happening in your life, you may find it easier to see what's triggering your anxiety and it can become a regular wellbeing activity in your daily routine.
Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: Concentrating on your breathing in those moments when you feel anxious or panicked can really help you take control of your thoughts. Start by breathing in for four seconds, holding for seven seconds and breathing out for eight.
Start exercising: Exercising and burning some energy is a great way of helping us to deal with our anxiety. Being active releases chemicals in the brain that make us feel good and it helps us lead a healthier lifestyle. Exercise is also a great thing to do with your partner to support their mental health.