World Mental Health Day is held every year on the 10th October and this year's theme is Overwhelm: when global events and relentless bad news become too much.

The day acts as a reminder of the importance of good mental health, and is an opportunity for us all to consider how, together, we can help everyone have better mental health.

This year's theme of 'overwhelm' looks at the mental health impact of repeated exposure to news coverage of crises and conflicts. There is lots going on in the world at the moment, and even if you are not directly affected by events, it can still feel like a lot to cope with, especially when we may not have the power to influence or change everything. 

Nurse Consultant for Mental Health, Ian Noonan, said: "Sometimes, the background of global events and bad news, can leave us feeling overwhelmed by things in our personal or work lives. There is a risk that we might dismiss our own feelings and challenges when there are more dramatic events happening elsewhere. But, if the issue matters to you, then it is important. Think about who you could talk to, or who you know who might need someone to offer them some time and a listening ear".

The Mental Health Foundation have pulled together some helpful advice for people to help manage overwhelm:

It's okay to ask for help, no matter what you, or anyone else is going through. If you need support, you can find local services in Calderdale and Kirklees on the South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust website using their Choose Well for Mental Health guide.