Raising awareness around mental health
Those who know me personally or are familiar with Healthy Pixels understand my passion for mental health. I’m committed to helping people overcome their challenges or find effective ways to manage them.
One valuable lesson I’ve learned since opening up about my personal challenges is how many of us struggle one way or the other. Whether it’s workplace burnout, career stagnation, the stress of a house move, dealing with an abusive partner, childhood trauma that still lingers, coping with a specific disorder or the loss of a loved one… These challenges come in many forms.
And how we deal with them varies greatly, too.
Some seek support from professionals or loved ones. Others find a hobby, such as writing or the gym. Some take leave from work, or opt for medication. But so many also keep their struggles to themselves, showing the world a brave or happy face.
Do you need help?
If you’re in need of support, remember that help is available. If you don’t feel comfortable discussing your struggles with loved ones (though often, they are more understanding than we realise), consider consulting your GP. They are accustomed to addressing mental health issues. Alternatively, you can reach out directly to organisations like Samaritans.
You don’t have to be experiencing suicidal thoughts to seek help, and often, reaching out sooner is more beneficial.
Know someone who needs help?
If you know someone is going through a challenging time, reach out to them. Ask how they are doing, and if there’s anything you can do to support them. Very often, there’s not much you physically can do, but showing that you’re there can make a world of difference.
Perhaps they could benefit from leaving the house too. Consider inviting them to watch a movie or do an activity you know they enjoy.
If you’re not comfortable speaking with them, perhaps give them a gentle reminder to reach out to their GP or other organisations.
Free therapy resource: CBT Booklet
A few years ago, I created a CBT booklet, specifically designed to assist individuals in managing OCD and various anxiety disorders. I made this after doing six months of intensive CBT myself, consolidating all the resources I was given into about 60 pages of my favourite techniques.
While this booklet should in no way replace therapy or professional support, it could be a helping hand for you or someone you need.
So today, I’m giving it away for free. Please note, this was available for free on October 10, 2023. It can still be purchased online:
The last month
Reflecting on the past month, it has been filled with client work, passion projects, and the establishment of my business.
Among others, I worked on a passion project for a domestic abuse organisation. Today, let’s remember that mental health isn’t just about what’s going on inside our minds; it’s deeply connected to our surroundings too. No job, unkind person or abuse is worth your mental health.
So here’s a gentle reminder to reach out for help if you need it – no matter what your situation is. So many organisations out there create safe and supportive spaces where you can heal. Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to seek help.
In this project:
- Branding: logo, colour palette, font
- Brand guide
- Web design
- Marketing material for the “no more” campaign
I also collaborated with my old company in Norway (whose website I built earlier this year), to design the designs for all walls, floors and one of the tables they used at an exhibition stand the other week, as well as a couple of ads and an update of their brochure.
Closing thoughts
Mental health can be challenging. But we need to get better at reaching out – whether that is asking for help, or offering it.
That is my biggest wish for Healthy Pixels.
