12 May 2023
Stacey Turner, founder of mental health awareness charity It’s OK To Say, talks about their work surrounding this year’s event.
As the echo of Mental Health Awareness Week approaches, I am very excited because the focus this year is on anxiety to increase people’s awareness and understanding.
Don’t get me wrong, I get excited about anything mental health related to inspire people to consider their own needs, reach out for support and know that It’s OK To Say, but it’s not often we get to shout about anxiety and I specialise in this area!
We understand that some people may find this topic triggering, however we also know that when someone learns more and begins to understand and relate it to themselves, a little bit of healing takes place.
It is important we recognise triggers and the way anxiety manifests within ourselves. Anxiety is common and a normal emotion, however sometimes it can make us feel wobbly and not feel in control. Normalising anxiety and learning how to respond instead of react is very important.
There are many strategies to learn to help manage anxiety. It is usually a variety of methods, so it is important to work with a professional to understand you and your needs.
Mental health is a big part of our everyday, yet these awareness days, weeks and months provide us with an added opportunity to share our messages, information, and engage further. We always have lots planned throughout the week and beyond. We are always here offering face to face, group and online support.
I am very pleased to share that the St Albans Cathedral is illuminating the West End in our charity’s colour on Monday May 15 to offer comfort and bring light to mental health.
Often people are carrying burden/s and we know lighting the Cathedral (as in previous years) inspires people to come out, take a walk around, seek comfort and use this as a time of reflection.
Cannon Will Gibbs said: “We are increasingly aware of the growing challenges that many people face with their mental health and as a Cathedral we are pleased to be able to light up the West End during Mental Health Awareness Week and show our solidarity with It’s OK To Say and the work they do to support those in the local area who are struggling.”
Oaklands College students have been working very hard on their mental health and well-being
projects and we will be sharing some of their work throughout the week. We have been working with various departments and have even been able to offer students placement and work experience opportunities.
For the first time this year, we have been interviewing local businesses and organisations and asking, how do you support your team? How do you place value on mental health and wellbeing within the workplace and why?
We’ve had a wonderful response and can’t wait to showcase these companies next week in the hope that it might make others stop and think about their own team.
It’s not enough to just keep breathing. We can’t pause our minds, especially when we feel anxious.
We can learn, understand and know that there are spaces and support available. We certainly offer that.
Email support@itsoktosay.org.uk
