They say a problem shared is a problem halved, and with one in five New Zealanders experiencing mental illness and/or addiction each year, it's crucial we continue to share our problems to ease the burden.
However, speaking up can be hard when we feel disconnected from those around us. The last two years in particular marked a turbulent and uncertain time, with our nearest and dearest no longer so near. The introduction of lockdowns, social distancing and household bubbles meant knocking on a friend's door or having a kōrero with whānau wasn't always an option, increasing feelings of isolation for many.
But with the pandemic in the rearview mirror, now has never been a better time to focus on reconnecting with loved ones - and to help, the Mental Health Foundation is encouraging everyday New Zealanders to rebuild their relationships and spend their time with people and places that are important to them.
Running since 1993, Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual campaign that aims to draw attention to the importance of mental health and engage people in activities designed to strengthen and uplift their wellbeing.
Each annual campaign is characterised by a new theme to demonstrate there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to mental health. The theme also inspires the type of activities that are available throughout the week, which are designed to promote wellbeing and encourage New Zealanders to take small actions to give themselves a boost.
"We pick a new theme every year because there isn't just one way to boost wellbeing and there's no one-size-fits-all approach that will work for everyone in Aotearoa," says Mental Health Foundation chief executive Shaun Robinson.
“Hopefully, every new Mental Health Awareness Week adds a new skill, tool or strategy to everyone’s wellbeing to help them every day and to draw on when times are tough.”
What is this year’s theme?
Running from September 26 to October 2, the theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is ‘Reconnect: With the people and places that lift you up’.
“We chose this theme because the past couple of years have been tough and it’s easy to feel disconnected from the people and places that are important to us. But connection is so important for our wellbeing and can make a big difference to our mental health,” Robinson explains.
“That’s why this Mental Health Awareness Week we’re encouraging people to reconnect with the people and places that lift them up. Whether it’s reconnecting with someone you have lost contact with, a special place or even yourself, use this week as an opportunity to reconnect with the people and places that enhance your wellbeing - hei pikinga waiora."
With 20 percent of New Zealanders experiencing mental illness and/or addiction every year, Robinson says it's important to remember that with the right support/tautoko, many people can - and do - recover.
Of course, Mental Health Awareness Week isn't just for those who are struggling with their mental health; it's for everyone, including New Zealanders who haven't struggled with their wellbeing. Reconnecting with loved ones, special places and the wider community are important no matter what stage you're at in your journey, as it promotes and fosters a sense of purpose and stability.
"Connection is important for our wellbeing. It brings purpose and belonging to our lives and makes us feel happier and more secure," Robinson continues.
What are some of the best ways we can reconnect to people and places?
Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week, there is a new theme each day to help engage and encourage people to reconnect with the people and places that are important to them. The Mental Health Awareness Week Guide outlines the daily themes and suggests different activities people can do to work on reconnecting and rebuilding important foundations in their lives.
Monday: Reconnect with yourself
Tuesday: Reconnect with a friend or loved one
Wednesday: Reconnect with a special place
Thursday: Reconnect with your community
Friday: Reconnect with nature
At the end of the week, it's also important for people to take time to reflect on how their mahi made them feel and the impact the activities made. What felt good? What do you want to take with you or continue to do in the weeks and months ahead? Is there someone else you want to reconnect with? A special place you want to make plans to visit?
If you don't want to follow the suggested activities, Robinson says reconnecting can be as simple as reaching out to friends and whānau or enjoying the beautiful nature Aotearoa has to offer.
"Whether it's reaching out to someone you have lost contact with, visiting your favourite place or getting outside in nature, we hope you'll take some time this Mental Health Awareness Week to reconnect with the people and places that lift you up" he says.
What other ways can people get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week?
Anyone can get involved by visiting mhaw.nz. Here you can download resources, like posters, printable activities, email signatures and the aforementioned Mental Health Awareness Week Guide, which provides ideas and inspiration to help you reconnect to people, places and the community throughout the week. There’s also a resource on how to have safe and supportive kōrero, if you’re looking to have a chat with someone going through a tough time.
Additionally, you can also check out the What's On calendar to see what events are taking place near you, or, take part in the Mental Health Awareness Week Instagram Challenge to show your progress and how you are choosing to reconnect throughout the week.
"Mental Health Awareness Week is an important reminder that we all go through ups and downs in life and that's okay. There are simple things we can all do to help us cope when things feel tough," Robinson concludes.
For more information, take a look at the FAQ here.
For resources, activity ideas and more to help bring Mental Health Awareness Week to life in your workplace, school or home, head to mhaw.nz.
Where to find help and support:
Need to talk? (Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor)
Lifeline (0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE)
Youthline (0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat)
Samaritans (0800 726 666)
This article was created for the Mental Health Foundation
