Health and wellbeing
Walsall residents urged to talk, listen and make every voice count this World Mental Health Day
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Walsall Council is encouraging residents to make time to talk, listen and connect ahead of World Mental Health Day on Saturday 10 October.
World Mental Health Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness of mental wellbeing, challenge stigma and encourage greater understanding and support.
This year's theme, "Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change", highlights the importance of creating opportunities for people to share their experiences and ensuring those voices help shape the support, services and communities around them.
Listening to people's experiences can help people feel understood, less isolated and better able to cope with life's challenges. It can also help communities and organisations better understand what supports positive mental wellbeing and where improvements may be needed.
“ Good mental wellbeing is important for everyone and World Mental Health Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how we support one another in our daily lives. This year's theme reminds us of the value of listening to people's experiences and ensuring every voice is heard. By staying connected to our communities and looking out for one another, we can all help make Walsall a more supportive place to live. “
Walsall Council’s Public Health team is encouraging residents, community groups, businesses and organisations across the borough to take one positive action for mental wellbeing this World Mental Health Day.
Residents are being encouraged to take simple actions that support their wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. This could include checking in with a friend or neighbour, meeting someone for a walk, calling a relative they have not spoken to for a while, or taking time to ask a colleague how they are really feeling.
Listening without judgement can make a real difference. Giving someone the opportunity to talk openly about how they are feeling and taking the time to listen can help people feel supported and less alone.
Residents are also encouraged to get involved in their local community by joining a community group, attending a coffee morning, volunteering, participating in physical activity sessions or visiting local libraries and community centres. These opportunities can help people build social connections, feel part of their community and reduce isolation.
Walsall Council's Public Health team works with partners across the borough to improve health and wellbeing, prevent ill health and reduce health inequalities.
Voluntary and community sector groups and organisations, services and businesses are being encouraged to mark World Mental Health Day by hosting wellbeing workshops, community conversations, coffee mornings, walks, lunch clubs and other activities that help people connect with others and access support where needed.
Anyone concerned about their mental wellbeing, or that of someone they know, is encouraged to seek support early and explore the range of services available across Walsall.
For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and select option 2 or text 07860 025 281. If someone is at immediate risk of harm, call 999. Samaritans can also be contacted on 116 123 for free or by visiting their website.
Residents can also access local support including the Sanctuary Community Mental Health Service, Rethink Sanctuary Hub, Walsall Men's Wellbeing Alliance, counselling and bereavement support, alongside services and activities supporting everyday wellbeing.
For further information and advice on mental wellbeing, visit the Walsall Council website. You can also download the 8 Steps to Wellbeing plan via the website.
