World Mental Health Day: What Helps?

Every year on 10 October, World Mental Health Day gives us a reason to talk about mental health, to listen and, importantly, to think about what genuinely helps.

This year, the World Health Organization’s theme is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.” It recognises that people who have experienced mental health conditions have knowledge and understanding that cannot come from research or professional training alone, and that those experiences should be heard and valued.

There is no single experience of mental health. And there is no single answer when it comes to the things that help us through more difficult days.

The things we come back to

Sometimes it’s talking to someone. Sometimes it’s having a routine, spending time with people you love or finding a little space on your own.

And for many of us, getting outside and moving helps too.

It might be a long walk somewhere wild, a run before work or ten minutes around the block. It might be gardening, walking the dog, meeting a friend outside or simply stepping through the front door and getting some fresh air.

There is evidence behind that feeling. Research from the Mental Health Foundation has found that our relationship with nature can play an important role in supporting good mental health and wellbeing. But perhaps just as importantly, these are the things people tell us make a difference to them.

Sometimes getting outside doesn’t fix anything. It just helps.

It can give you somewhere to go, something to do and a little distance from whatever is going on inside your head. Movement can provide a change of pace. A walk with someone can make conversation easier. A dog can give you a reason to put your shoes on and head out, even on a day when you might not otherwise feel like it.

And sometimes simply noticing what is around you can bring you back into the moment.

What helps you?

In the spirit of this year’s theme, we asked people within the Delta Roam team and community one very simple question:

What helps you when you’re having a difficult day?

“Take a break and stop, move away from screens/tech /TV/noise and go outside, take a long walk, watch the sky.  There’s something peaceful and magical to be found in the clouds when life is running away with you” — Cristie 

“What helps me when I’m having a bad day is cooking quick but interesting meals and eating… eating and eating! Or I’ll lie on a mat and meditate for 15 minutes.” — Chika

“When I’m having a difficult day, going for a swim or spending time with dogs helps me switch off, clear my mind and feel more like myself again.” — Brian

“Getting outside always helps. Whether it’s a run, walking with Tyger in nature or just pottering in the garden, moving and being outdoors gives me some space to clear my head.” — Camilla

“My favourite Winston Churchill quote has got my husband and me through all sorts of trials over the years: ‘When you’re going through hell, keep going.’ And sunshine, whenever possible, is one of the things that helps me most.” — Claire

“When I’m having a tough day, walking my crazy dog, running to my favourite tunes or laughing out loud with my kids always helps me find me again!” — Emma

“Running has always been my go to! Track sprints, trail running in the Peaks, street lit road run… all helps me focus and reset. A cuddle from Miri or a pint of Madri in the sun seem to also do the trick though” — Matt

The answers will inevitably be different. That’s rather the point.

What helps one person may do very little for another. And what helps on one difficult day might not be enough on another.

Sometimes, it just helps

Getting outside, moving your body, seeing a friend or walking the dog aren’t cures for mental ill health, nor are they substitutes for professional help when it is needed.

They are simply some of the things that can support us.

At Delta Roam, we talk a lot about life being better lived outdoors. For us, that isn’t about climbing the highest mountain or travelling to the wildest place. Being outside can be much simpler than that.

A footpath. A park. A garden. A familiar walk. A few minutes outside your own front door.

This World Mental Health Day, perhaps the question isn’t what should make us feel better, but something much more personal:

What helps you?

And perhaps it is worth listening to the answer.

If you or someone you know needs support with their mental health, help is available. You can find information and support through Mind or the NHS. You can also contact Samaritans free, any time, day or night, by calling 116 123.