Are you ok?

Today is World Mental Health day. Each year, on 10th October, this day is marked with the objective of raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health.

Mental health is an area close to many peoples’ hearts, including mine. I’ve been lucky to have the opportunity to work in this space, including showing the positive return on investment for preventative mental health interventions. The data speaks for itself, and it’s amazing to see the technology solutions being developed to improve mental health.

Yet I’m always drawn to the very simple, very human things we can do to support each other.

Inevitably, anyone you known has a number of things happening at work, at school, at home, or relationship-related which just don’t naturally come up in conversation. Depending on your relationship, and how private the person is, you might not want to pry. But if you sense something is up, trust your gut and make a gesture to show you’re there for them.

It might be as simple as grabbing a coffee during a busy day, sending them a text, or a small gift for no reason. Ask them if they are ok, and listen without judgement. It’s definitely something I know I could do more of.