Mental Health is for All of Us: Why We Must Make Space for Well-Being

On World Mental Health Day, I’m reflecting on how we often treat mental health as an afterthought—something to address when things go wrong. But here’s the truth: mental health is at the core of everything we do, and it’s time we all made space for it in our lives.

We’ve all heard the phrases—self-care, balance, wellness—but how often do we actually apply them? For many, mental health is a distant concern until burnout, anxiety, depression or overwhelming stress brings it to the surface. The reality is that mental health isn't just personal, it’s universal, and we need to take it seriously—both for ourselves and for those around us.

The Silent Struggle: We All Carry a Mental Load

We all carry a mental load, whether it’s managing work deadlines, family responsibilities, the intensity of a close game, or personal challenges. Too often, we "power through" instead of pausing to take care of ourselves. This approach may feel productive in the short term, but it’s unsustainable in the long run. Ignoring mental health doesn’t make us stronger—it makes us vulnerable.

Think about the times you’ve felt overwhelmed but kept going. How did it affect your creativity, athleticism, relationships, or overall happiness? Mental health isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s the foundation that allows us to show up fully in our work, our sport, our relationships, and our lives.

The Shift: Prioritizing Mental Health

The stigma surrounding mental health is still one of the biggest barriers we face. Too often, we feel the need to maintain appearances, to seem like we’ve got it all together. But here’s the thing: taking care of your mental health doesn’t make you weak—it makes you smart. Just like you wouldn’t ignore a physical injury, you shouldn’t ignore mental strain either.

The shift needs to happen in how we view mental well-being. It’s not something we deal with only when we’re at a breaking point; it’s something we should nurture every day.

Practical Ways to Create Space for Mental Health

So, how can we prioritize mental health for ourselves and those around us? Here are a few practical steps:

• Normalize the conversation: Talk about mental health openly, whether at work, home, with the team, or with friends. The more we normalize it, the less stigma there will be.
• Prioritize breaks: In a culture that glorifies busyness, taking breaks can feel like a luxury. But rest and recovery aren’t optional—they’re essential. Build in regular breaks, not just during vacation, but in your daily routine.
• Seek support early: You don’t need to wait for a crisis to get help. Whether it’s therapy, talking to a friend, executive coaching or seeking professional guidance, support can make all the difference before things spiral.
• Set boundaries: Healthy boundaries are crucial for mental well-being. Whether it’s saying no to additional responsibilities or carving out personal time, boundaries help protect your mental space.
• Build a supportive network: Surround yourself with people who value and understand mental health. It’s not a solo journey—we’re in this together.

Opening Up: The Conversation We Need

Here's the thing: we need to start talking about mental health openly and honestly. Athletes should feel empowered to share their struggles without fear of judgment. It’s high time we break the stigma surrounding mental health in sports. Coaches, sports organizations, and mental health professionals must foster environments where athletes’ psychological well-being is as important as their physical condition.

Practical Tips for Mental Wellness

1. Embrace Self-Care: This isn't just a buzzword. Self-care is vital. Athletes should carve out time for activities that bring joy and relaxation—whether that's reading, painting, or just binge-watching a favorite series.
2. Professional Support: Regular sessions with sports psychologists, therapists or counselors can provide invaluable support. It’s like having a personal coach for your mind and emotions.
3. Balanced Lifestyle: Easier said than done, right? But balance is crucial. Make time for family, friends, travel, and hobbies outside of sports. Remember, you're more than your athletic identity.
4. Nutrition and Sleep: Fuel your body right and prioritize sleep. Think of it as the foundation upon which everything else is built.
5. Build Your Tribe: Surround yourself with a supportive network. Coaches, teammates, mentors, family, friends—they're your cheerleaders on and off the field.
6. Set Realistic Goals: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are Olympic champions. Celebrate the small wins, the second places and even the losses. They add up.
7. Coping Mechanisms: Find what works for you—deep breathing, therapy, meditation, being vulnerable, journaling. Equip yourself with tools to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Changing the Culture

Mental health isn’t just an individual issue; it’s also a workplace issue. In our professional lives, we often think success is tied to endless productivity, but mental health is a key factor in long-term performance. We need work environments that support well-being as much as they support output.

Leaders, managers, and colleagues have a role to play here. Encourage mental health days, check in with each other beyond work tasks, and create a culture that values people over productivity.

Conclusion: A Collective Effort for Well-Being

Whether it’s through open conversations, small daily practices, or supporting those around us, we all have a role to play. Mental health isn’t just a personal responsibility—it’s a collective one. And when we take care of our mental well-being, we’re better equipped to thrive in every area of our lives.?

Because at the end of the day, success isn’t just about what we accomplish—it’s about how we feel while we’re doing it.