Mental Health Awareness Week

The theme of this year's Mental Health Awareness Week is "Moving For Your Mental Health". Physical activity isn't just great for the body; it's also incredibly beneficial for the mind. Today, we're sharing an inspiring quote from one of our Board of Directors, Tim Molden:

"I’ve recently started the NHS Couch to 5K again. Starting the day 3 times a week with a run sets me up physically and mentally. Being part of the Running On Empty community also gives me that extra encouragement to keep on pushing on to achieve my goal."

Whether it's a brisk walk, a morning jog, or joining a community like Running on Empty, moving more can significantly boost your mental well-being. Let's get moving and support each other in our journeys to better mental health!

Some words from Arevika Stepanian for Mental Health Awareness Week:

As a board director for ED&I at ASIS International - UK, I believe it's imperative to emphasise the significance of mental health education, particularly within the realm of security. Mental health issues affect a significant portion of the population, with statistics from Mind revealing that 1 in 4 people in England experience a mental health problem each year. Moreover, the increasing frequency of searches for 'How to reduce stress' on Google every 10 minutes in the UK in 2024 underscores the urgent need for proactive measures. Educating ourselves about mental health not only supports our team members but also enhances organisational effectiveness.

Personally, I've found that incorporating mindfulness practices into my daily routine has been incredibly beneficial for my mental well-being. Just taking a few moments each day to pause, breathe, and be present helps me manage stress and become more resilient. Additionally, prioritising regular exercise has proven to be a game-changer for my mental health. Whether it's going for a jog, hitting the gym, or practicing yoga/pilates, physical activity not only boosts my mood but also provides a much-needed outlet for releasing tension and anxiety.

In closing, I encourage everyone to explore practices and activities that support their mental well-being, as they truly make a difference. Let's strive to be kinder to each other, recognising that we all experience ups and downs, and having a supportive network around us is key.