Every year on 10th October, millions of people come together to mark World Mental Health Day – a global reminder that mental health matters just as much as physical health. This year’s theme highlights the importance of access to care, compassion, and understanding for people of all ages and in every community.
At Braeburn Care, we are proud to stand alongside our customers, their families, and our wider community to recognise this important day. Working daily across Kent and East Sussex, we see first-hand how mental wellbeing impacts overall health and quality of life – particularly for older adults and those living independently at home.
While conversations around mental health have grown in recent years, stigma and silence still remain. This is why raising awareness, encouraging connection, and promoting support are more vital than ever.
Why Mental Health Matters in Home Care
In the world of community care, the role of mental health cannot be overstated. Many of the people we support are living with long-term conditions, recovering from illness, or navigating the challenges of ageing. Alongside physical health needs, many also experience:
- Loneliness and isolation – especially when family live far away or social circles become smaller.
- Anxiety and low confidence – often linked to health changes, hospital stays, or bereavement.
- Depression – which can arise when independence feels threatened, or daily routines become overwhelming.
These are not small challenges. They directly affect quality of life, the ability to remain independent at home, and overall wellbeing. But the good news is that with the right support, compassion, and small daily actions, people’s mental health can be protected and improved.
The Power of Connection in Care
At Braeburn Care, we see the transformational impact of connection every day. While our Care Professionals provide practical support such as personal care, medication assistance, and meal preparation, they also bring something equally valuable: human warmth and emotional support.
- A smile at the door can brighten a morning.
- A listening ear can ease anxiety.
- Gentle encouragement can help someone regain confidence after illness or hospital discharge.
These may sound simple, but they are powerful tools in reducing loneliness, strengthening resilience, and supporting mental wellbeing at home.
Practical Ways to Support Mental Wellbeing
Mental health awareness isn’t just for one day. It’s something we can all promote throughout the year – whether as Care Professionals, family members, neighbours, or friends. Here are some practical steps that make a difference:
- Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes the most supportive thing we can do is to truly listen. Allowing someone to share their feelings without interruption or judgment can provide relief and reassurance.
- Encourage Small Steps: Big changes can feel overwhelming. But suggesting small, manageable activities – such as a short walk, a phone call with a friend, or trying a new hobby – can rebuild confidence and lift mood.
- Check In Regularly: A quick message, call, or visit can go a long way, especially for those who may feel isolated. Consistency matters – it shows people they are remembered and valued.
- Promote Healthy Routines: Encouraging regular meals, good sleep, gentle exercise, and time outdoors all contribute to better mental health. Our carers often integrate these prompts into daily visits.
- Look After Yourself Too: Mental health isn’t just important for those receiving care – it’s vital for Care Professionals, families, and healthcare professionals as well. Taking time to rest and recharge ensures we can continue to give the best of ourselves.
How Braeburn Care Supports Mental Health
At Braeburn Care, our mission goes beyond meeting physical needs. We are committed to holistic support, which means caring for emotional and mental wellbeing as part of every care plan.
- Companionship care – where carers spend quality time with customers, chatting, sharing stories, or enjoying hobbies.
- Encouraging independence – supporting customers to do as much as possible for themselves, which builds confidence and self-worth.
- Family reassurance – keeping families informed and involved, reducing their worries and strengthening the support circle.
- Community links – signposting to local groups, clubs, or charities across Kent and East Sussex that can reduce isolation and increase social interaction.
Through these actions, we see not just improved health outcomes, but happier, more fulfilled lives.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the biggest barriers to good mental health is still stigma. Too often, people feel they must hide how they’re feeling, fearing they will be judged or dismissed. This can lead to silence, which worsens loneliness and prevents people from seeking help.
This World Mental Health Day, we want to be clear: talking about mental health is normal. Feeling anxious, low, or lonely is something many people experience – and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
By sharing stories, opening conversations, and normalising discussions about mental wellbeing, we can create communities where no one feels alone in their struggles.
A Call to Action
As we mark World Mental Health Day 2025, we encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect:
- Who could you check in on today?
- What small step could you take for your own wellbeing?
- How can we all help reduce stigma and promote understanding?
At Braeburn Care, we pledge to continue supporting both the physical and emotional needs of our customers, while raising awareness across the communities we serve. Mental health affects us all. Whether it’s an older person living alone, a family member balancing care with other responsibilities, or a carer offering daily support – everyone’s mental health matters and deserves care and respect.
This World Mental Health Day, let’s remember: a smile, a conversation, or a moment of kindness can change someone’s day. And those small moments add up to stronger, healthier communities.
If you’d like to learn more about our services or discuss how we can support your loved one’s wellbeing at home, please get in touch:
📞 Call us on 01892 577680
🌐 Learn more at www.braeburncare.co.uk
📩 Email enquiries@braeburncare.co.uk
