I’m Isabella, and I joined Team Spa as a Senior PR and Social Media Executive this summer. Alongside my role at Spa Communications, I work part-time for the charity Mind in Kingston, providing support for those navigating mental health challenges.

My journey with Mind in Kingston began four years ago, during my final year of university, when I started as a Drop-in Café Worker. The Drop-in Cafes create a “friendly, relaxed and safe environment for people with mental health issues from in and around Kingston” offering low-level support and promoting social inclusion. During the pandemic I started supporting the weekly Virtual Drop-in Café, providing a safe space from the comfort of everyone’s home, and help run a monthly book club, which is always great fun!

Having personally struggled with my mental health, I am deeply passionate about raising mental health awareness, giving back and supporting others. Taking care of your mental health is paramount, and this year’s World Mental Health Day theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right,’ resonates profoundly.

Embracing mental health as a universal human right involves advocating for policies and practices that prioritise mental health care, destigmatising mental illnesses, and promoting inclusivity. It encourages communities to create environments that foster emotional well-being, understanding, and empathy.

Here are some of my top tips for creating a positive wellbeing environment:  

Open Dialogue: Foster open and honest conversations around mental health, if comfortable share your own experiences and connect with others. This goes a long way to reduce the secrecy and shame associated with mental illness.

Education and Awareness: Promote mental health awareness through research and education. Knowledge is power when it comes to breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions.

Language Matters: Be mindful of the language you use when discussing mental health. Choose words that are inclusive, non-judgmental, and avoid perpetuating stereotypes. For example: OCD is not an adjective!

Promote Self-Care: Encourage and normalise self-care practices, whether that is prioritising sleep, practising gratitude or enjoying a hot bubble bath! Taking care of one’s mental health is as important as physical health, and it’s not a sign of weakness but strength. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy taking time to recharge…

Celebrate Differences: We are all unique so why not embrace the diversity in mental health experiences. Recognise that everyone’s journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental well-being.

Let’s be allies for each other. Let’s cultivate environments that champion mental health as a right, not just another checkbox on HR forms. Together, we can break down barriers, shatter stigmas, and create a world where everyone feels empowered to prioritise their mental health.

As we reflect on this year’s World Mental Health Day, let’s collectively commit to prioritising self-care and extending our support to others.

But remember, Mental Health Day isn’t a one-time event—it’s something to prioritise every day!

Isabella Askey-Brown

Senior PR and Social Media Executive