Embracing mental wellbeing

Dorset Mind’s Mery Zanutto says we should treat mental health like physical health with daily self-care and asking for support

What exactly is mental health? This question often elicits a range of responses, highlighting the complexities and misunderstandings surrounding the topic. People often address their physical health assertively and confidently, yet discussions about mental health are met with ambiguity and hesitation.

Physical vs mental inequality
Mental health is just as important as physical health: it’s an integral part of our overall wellbeing, affecting how we think, feel and act. It influences our ability to handle stress, relate to others and make decisions. Yet, despite its importance, mental health is often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. It’s time to start viewing mental health as an equally-essential component of our wellbeing as physical health.
Maintaining mental wellbeing should be a part of our everyday routine. Just as we exercise to benefit our physical body, we need to cultivate practices that support our mental wellbeing. This includes self-care strategies like mindfulness, regular physical activity, healthy eating, adequate sleep and, importantly, talking about our feelings and experiences with others.
At Dorset Mind, we excel in providing a safe space for individuals to reach out and talk about their mental health. Our comprehensive range of services is designed to support mental wellbeing at every stage of life for both adults and young people aged nine upwards.

World Mental Health Day
Observed on October 10th, World Mental Health Day is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting mental health education.
It’s an opportunity to address stigma, advocate for mental health policies, and celebrate progress made in mental health care.
Taking responsibility for our mental health can be empowering. It involves recognising when we need help and then seeking support without shame.
Dorset Mind’s CEO, Linda O’Sullivan, says: ‘We cannot always do this alone. As humans, we need connection and the support of others, but importantly we often need to recognise this ourselves.’
Seeking help is an essential first step towards maintaining mental wellbeing. It can also be the bravest thing you do.
As we celebrate World Mental Health Day, let’s commit to making mental wellbeing a daily priority. Reach out, talk to others and utilise the services available at Dorset Mind and other sources we have locally and nationally.
Together, we can support each other in achieving better mental health and wellbeing.
For more information about our services, please visit Dorset Mind’s website at dorsetmind.uk, where you’ll find what the charity offers, as well as signposting for crisis support and other help for adults and young people.