October 10 marks World Mental Health Day. It is a day that shines a spotlight on something we should care about every year. But one day is not enough. Mental health care should not be limited to those who can afford it. But it is something that everyone needs. Mental health is a human right. And we need to treat mental health just as seriously as bodily health.
Mental Health in the Modern Workplace
Job stress is getting worse. Burnout happens more often now. Many workers feel isolated, even when surrounded by coworkers.
But in recent times, some companies are stepping up. Alberts is one such example. They create spaces where minds matter. They offer yoga classes so staff can start their week feeling calm. They also hold walking meetings that get bodies moving and encourage people to engage in conversation. Their monthly Wellness Wednesday hours allow employees to take a break and do something good for themselves.
Backing Innovation for Better Access
Investing in mental health startups helps more people access mental health services. Alberts Impact Ventures (AIV) funds people with big ideas for mental health.
Like Family brings carers to older or disabled folks who need help with everyday tasks. This app combats loneliness by fostering communities where people feel valued and matter.
Samphire Neuroscience tackles how periods and PMS hurt mental health. Their Nettle headband gives relief without drugs by working with brain areas that control emotions and pain.
ThroughLine is a company that connects people in crisis to help. It does not matter where they are. They bring together 1300 helplines in 100 countries. Their team-up with Google also makes finding help faster.
Technology as a Tool for Emotional Support
Apps and tech can also break down walls to get help. Mindset Health is a company that created phone-based hypnotherapy for problems like IBS and anxiety. They mix solid research with easy-to-use apps.
Talking openly about mental health makes getting help feel normal. At an R U OK? At the day event, Mindset Health’s founder explained that mental health touches everyone at some point. And talking about it freely takes away the shame.
Everyday Practices That Make a Difference
Easy habits can build stronger minds:
- Deep breathing calms racing thoughts
- Outdoor walks connect you to your body and nature
- Staying in the moment eases worry
- Good sleep helps emotions stay balanced
- Talking with friends fights off the feeling of being alone
These sound easy, but can feel impossible when you’re struggling. That’s when having support really matters.
The Role of Community and Policy
Shame still keeps many people quiet about their pain. Something inside that says “don’t tell” when speaking up could actually help. Far-away services, high prices, and long wait times block paths to feeling better.
Mental health as a human right means care for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, urban or rural background, or any other characteristic. Just like we’d never deny someone treatment for a broken arm, we shouldn’t deny help for broken spirits.
Bosses, governments, and neighbors all need to tear down these walls. When mental health care becomes as accessible as physical care, we’ll have happier workplaces, stronger families, and better communities.
A Shared Commitment to Mental Wellness
Mental health care can’t depend on luck or money alone. Where you live, how much you earn, or what job you have should not determine whether you receive help during difficult times.
Groups like Albert’s also demonstrate what happens when mental health becomes a priority. Their STEPtember event got employees walking together. They took almost four million steps while simultaneously raising money for charity.
We also need to check on ourselves and others often. Not just on World Mental Health Day but whenever someone needs a hand. Creating a society where everyone’s mental health matters is not only smart, but it also demonstrates our care for one another as human beings.
