Just Breathe: Mental Health Day
As Autumn's shorter days invite us to pause and reflect, we're reminded that sometimes the most powerful, active thing we can do is simply take a moment and breathe.
I wanted to share an image (above) by Charlie Mackesy. His book, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, is such an inspiring book; it makes so much sense to me, particularly with regards to mental health issues. I was lucky to be gifted the book by colleagues in Westminster.
The film adaptation is equally amazing; it brings me to tears every time! It was a real treat that it was played on BBC1 on Christmas Day. I'm also excited to hear a new book is coming out this month, which will be added straight to my library.
Thank you, Charlie Mackesy, for your beautiful words and pictures. I very much look forward to the sequel!
A Season of Transition
This season of transition often mirrors the unexpected shifts in our own lives, and it can be a bit of a shocker. But try to remember that major change even if it feels a bit like a loss right now is simply a redirection, clearing the path for something genuinely exciting. It’s during these essential moments of reset, when we might feel slightly adrift, that stepping back and seeking internal stability becomes the brilliant foundation for future success.
Given how important mental health and general well-being are, this World Mental Health Awareness Day on 10 October presents a great opportunity for a fresh start. It’s time to take a good, honest look at where we are right now, whether we're navigating a career change, turning a page on grief, or simply managing the everyday.
Stop criticising, start creating. This is purely about brilliant, intentional vision for the future.
To help you anchor this positive shift and define your path forward, I would love for you to find a quiet space for 20 minutes. Pop the kettle on, close your eyes, breathe deep, and use these questions to tap into your deepest, most empowered self:
Insights for Your New Chapter
If I had to pick one word to describe my intention for 2026, what would it be?
What new experiences do I want to welcome into my life this year?
What would it feel like deep down to experience it?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, here are some numbers to call:
Samaritans - You can contact Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year:
Call 116 123 (free from any phone)
Call the Samaritans Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day)
Email jo@samaritans.org
SANEline
If you're experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10pm every day).
CALM
You can call the CALM on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day) if you're affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts. Or if you prefer not to speak on the phone, you could try the CALM webchat service.
