The upcoming holiday season can be a difficult time for many, but November’s mental health related holidays can serve as a reminder of self-care and reaching out to loved ones who may be struggling. Mental health is a vital part of overall health and quality of life. It enables us to deal with stress, relate to others, and make choices while impacting how we think, feel, and act. Here are some key reasons why mental health matters:
- Enhances our ability to handle stress
- Boosts overall mood
- Alleviates anxiety and depression
- Fosters a sense of inner tranquility
- Improves cognitive abilities and clarity of thought
- Strengthens relationships
- Elevates self-esteem
- Protects physical health
Despite the increasing awareness surrounding mental health, stigma still exists regarding mental illness and the care associated with it. To raise awareness, many people and organizations recognize national and internal dates for mental health, many of which can be found on Mental Health America’s website. While May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s essential to acknowledge other significant dates throughout the year that promote mental health prioritization. This month, November’s mental health related holidays include National Stress Awareness Day, Survivor Day, World Kindness Day, and Movember, an entire month dedicated to raising awareness about men’s physical and mental health.
How Do You Observe National Stress Awareness Day?
Every year, on the first Wednesday of November, we observe National Stress Awareness Day. It’s a day to recognize the effects of stress on mental and physical health and the importance of learning to manage it. Stress has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and mental health conditions like anxiety. While stressors are unavoidable, we can control our responses to them. National Stress Awareness Day encourages people to recognize life stressors and adopt healthy coping mechanisms.
In today’s fast-paced environment, being busy and stressed is often seen as a mark of success. However, chronic stress can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health, making it essential to find effective management strategies. National Stress Awareness Day is a great opportunity to self-reflect on the stressors you face and your coping abilities. If life’s pressures are becoming overwhelming, consider these stress-relief techniques:
- Implement coping skills and distraction methods. This can include meditation, breathing, relaxation techniques, and creative outlets. Additionally, you may consider talking to a mental health specialist who can help you identify stress triggers and provide effective coping techniques.
- Adopt a balanced diet. Consuming a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while minimizing processed foods can significantly improve mental health.
- Prioritize sleep. Stress can make it difficult to sleep, which in turn can exacerbate stress. Implement healthy sleep hygiene habits and use stress reduction techniques throughout the day to aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night.
- Engage in regular physical activity. Exercise is a powerful way to relieve stress and boost mental health. Experiment with various forms of exercise to find what suits you best, whether walking, dancing, yoga, or joining a fitness class.
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What Is Survivors Day?
International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, commonly referred to as Survivors Day, takes place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year, with this year’s observance on November 23rd. According to the American Psychiatric Association, this day is designated for those affected by suicide to come together for healing and support. In 2017 alone, over 47,000 individuals lost their lives to suicide, and the numbers continue to rise annually. The loss of a loved one from suicide leaves friends and family struggling to understand and cope. Many communities honor this day by organizing memorial services, support groups, and various initiatives that encourage open discussions about mental health and suicide prevention.
Survivors Day serves not only to raise awareness and foster understanding about suicide but also provides a platform for those who have lost loved ones to connect and share their experiences. It can also promote awareness about creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help. For families of suicide victims, it is also important to look after their own mental well-being and seek support if needed.
What Is the Goal of Movember?
Movember was founded in 2003 by a group of friends in Melbourne, Australia as a way to raise awareness and funds for men’s health, including prostate and testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. The Movember Foundation runs year-round awareness and fundraising, but during the month of November, they challenge men to grow a mustache and encourage both men and women to be physically active. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Movember is the only global charity dedicated exclusively to men’s health. The funds collected are directed towards innovative research and support programs designed to help men lead healthier, happier, and longer lives.
Research indicates that men are often reluctant to talk about their mental health and are more likely to die by suicide compared to women. Movember’s campaigns strive to help men break free from the shame and stigma associated with mental health issues. Society frequently instills the belief that men must always be strong, which can result in suppressing their emotions and feeling that seeking help is not an option. Movember is committed to helping men understand that asking for help is acceptable and essential.
Is World Kindness Day Always November 13th?
World Kindness Day is celebrated worldwide every year on November 13. This special day aims to promote and inspire acts of kindness, emphasizing the importance of empathy and goodwill in our daily lives. The goal is to make kindness a common practice rather than a rare occurrence. On World Kindness Day, people are encouraged to go out of their way to be kind to others. Individuals wanting to celebrate can do so by pledging to do at least one intentional act of kindness on that day that benefits someone else. It’s also meant to acknowledge others’ kindness and generosity by reminding individuals to thank them.
Practicing kindness can have a positive impact on mental health. It can reduce stress and improve mood, happiness, and self-esteem. Acts of kindness help the brain to release “happy chemicals” like dopamine and oxytocin. For those dealing with anxiety and depression, performing kind acts can divert their attention from their symptoms. Additionally, performing a kind act has a positive ripple effect, boosting the recipient’s happiness and potentially supporting them on a particularly challenging day.
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Moment of Clarity Observes November Mental Health Related Holidays
Moment of Clarity is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and inspiring individuals to seek help when facing challenges. By recognizing November health related holidays and throughout the year, we aim to foster a supportive community. Our outpatient mental health treatment programs offer individuals and their families valuable education and resources, empowering them to take charge of their mental well-being. This November is a perfect opportunity to reflect on your mental health and discover new ways to prioritize self-care.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing mental health difficulties, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support. For more information on mental health treatment options, contact Moment of Clarity today at 949-625-0564.
External Sources
- Mental Health America – MHA Awareness Calendar 2024
- American Psychiatric Association – International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
- Prostate Cancer Foundation – Movember and PCF
