World Mental Health Day

16 October 2025

What is World mental health day?

• Every year, on the 10^th of October, people all around the world celebrate World Mental Health Day. It is a special day to remind us that everyone has feelings and it is okay to talk about them.
• Sometimes we can feel happy, excited and calm. Other times we might feel sad, worried and angry and that is normal too.
• If your feelings are hurt or you are having a hard time, talking to someone about it is like putting a bandage on your heart and mind, World Mental Health Day reminds us to do that.

But, what does World Mental Health Day teach us?

• Talking about our feelings is important.
• Asking for help is a strong and brave thing to do.
• Being kind to ourselves and others helps everyone feel better and connected.
• Knowing that we are not alone, we all have days of struggle and it is okay to reach out.

Why does mental health matter?

• We brush our teeth to keep them strong, we eat good food to keep our bodies healthy and strong. Mental health is not too dissimilar, we can do many things to keep our minds happy and healthy.
• Good mental health helps us maintain healthy relationships and cope well under pressure and with the stresses we can face during school and further education.

What can we do to help our mental health?

• Have you ever felt really happy one day, and then a little sad the next day? That’s part of how our mind works, and it is normal.
• Look below at some helpful tips to keep on top of your mental health:

For Children

• Name your feelings – Feelings are like colours – Sometimes bright and sometimes dark – I feel sad or I feel happy, naming your feelings can help you to understand your emotions.
• Talk to a trusted grown-up – if something is worrying or troubling you, share it with a teacher, parent or a family member, a problem shared is a problem halved.
• Move your body – Dancing, running or playing out in the fresh air helps your brain feel happier and calmer.
• Breath like a balloon – Put your hands over your tummy, take a slow breath in (Like filling a balloon), then breath out gently. Try this three times, it can help us feel more at ease and calm.
• Do something fun every single day – Draw, play, read or build, anything that sparks your interest. Fun activities help break up the day and provides your brain with a ‘Happy break ‘

Teens

• Stay connected – Talk with friends or family that you trust; you don’t need to go through this alone.
• Write it out – Jotting down your thoughts can help untangle feelings and make sense of them.
• Take tech breaks – social media can make us feel worse at times, unplug for a while and do something that makes you feel good offline.
• Practice healthy routines – good sleep, balanced meals and movement are like fuel to your mind, like making sure a car is running well.
• Ask for help – Talking to a school counsellor, doctor or a trusted adult when things feel too heavy is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Who else can I talk too when I am struggling?

Crisis Help Line: Text SHOUT to 85258 for confidential support.

Samaritans: Call 116 123 for free, 24/7 support.

Young minds Text line: Text: YM to 85258: Support: Free, confidentially 24/7 text support from trained volunteers.

Wiltshire Mind 

Shout – text 85258 – Free 24/7 text service (free on most mobile services) For anyone in crisis or struggling to cope with stress, anxiety or worry.