Arcadia Ireland

When we think about mental health, we often tend to think about "bad" mental health. We think about depression, anxiety, OCD and other diagnostic terms, rather than the fact that mental health is a spectrum, and that we are all somewhere on that spectrum, whether we've ever realised it or not. Those of us who have experienced life towards the negative end of that spectrum at some point may be far more aware of our mental health than those who have not, yet we can all do things that have positive and negative effects on our mental health, just as some actions can have a negative impact on our physical health.

Sometimes, if we're feeling low, one small act of self-care might be enough to put us back on our feet.

Sometimes, if we're feeling low, one small act of self-care might help to put us back on our feet, whereas at other times we might need a more concrete intervention, like medication or therapy. At other times, when our mental health is great, we might find there are things that are special to us that help keep it that way. While there are some basic self-care steps we can all take (getting enough sleep, taking time out, physical exercise) other steps will be unique to us.

This year, for World Mental Health Day, we asked our staff and students to share some of the things they do to help them maintain good mental health. 

"When I’m overwhelmed I take a moment to color in a coloring book to distract my brain!" (Hannah, Brandeis)

"Recently, I’ve been loving taking little strolls around London. There are so many people to watch and a sensational mix of smells, sights, and sounds—every walk is so different, there are always new things to see and take in! Sometimes I like to pop my earbuds in and put the noise cancellation on while walking so I get a little surround sound music kind of like a theme song for my walk. It’s like being the main character in a movie!" (anonymous, King’s)

"Casper the Cat is my cat therapist (but only when he feels like it, of course!)" (anonymous, Hamilton - unsurprisingly, Casper was very much a theme in the answers I received!)

"I cycle into work and having this as part of my daily routine really helps set me up for the day on the cycle in -  and unwind from the work day on the way home.  Despite the hectic London traffic it is a period of relative peace where I can ponder and process thoughts and feelings." (Andrew, Director)

"When I feel myself getting overwhelmed, I enjoy going on runs at Waterlow Park. I find that exercise helps me expend all of my nervous energy and overall makes me feel good!" (Sol, RLA)

"To take care of my mental health, I pay attention to all of my basic needs (hunger, hygiene, sleep/energy...) and take care of myself on that basic level. It is virtually impossible to take on higher-scale challenges without first ensuring one's comfort and all around health. More personally, I believe a break from the internet is always helpful to clear the mind. :)" (Abbey, Brandeis)

"I like to dedicate one day a week to doing absolutely nothing, which lets me recharge amid a busy schedule. (Libby, Academic Officer)

And mine? I love to swim in the mixed pond on the Health all year round. This time of year is the best - the water is still bearably cold instead of freezing, but the pond is really quiet, and I've occasionally had it all to myself!

If you find you're struggling, please don't be afraid to reach out! Arcadia can help get you set up with a therapist, or you can call ISOS to arrange this yourself.