World Mental Health Day: Protecting Your Mental Health with Riders Minds

Friday 10^th October, marks World Mental Health Day, and with the theme of ‘Protect and Support’, Riders Minds are reminding all equestrians that looking after and protecting your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical wellbeing, as they share some important tips.

Mental Health Expert and Riders Minds website content creator, Sylvia Bruce said, “At Riders Minds, we understand that the pressures of life, both in and out of the saddle, can sometimes feel overwhelming. As equestrians, we are often excellent at looking after our horses first, and then putting everyone else before ourselves. That’s why we’re urging everyone to take a Half Halt today to pause, re-balance, re-set and re-focus on making your own mental health and well-being a priority.”

Sylvia’s top three tips to help protect your mental health:

Your Welfare – Self awareness and self care is vital to protecting and maintaining good mental health. Prioritise rest – to re-charge your battery, your energy levels – , good nutrition, and exercise. Just like your horse, you need the right care and balance to perform at your best, coupled with the ability to recognise when you’re not feeling your best.
Your Resilience – Build strategies to manage life’s challenges. Small daily habits, like managing your energy levels, or setting boundaries, can strengthen your bouncebackability.
Your Support – This looks and feels different for everyone. For some people it might mean space, for others it might mean community or having conversations, but it’s important to remember you are never alone. Stay connected with trusted friends, family, or colleagues, and reach out for professional help when you need it.

On this World Mental Health Day, Riders Minds is here to remind you: your mental health matters, your wellbeing matters, and support is available for all equestrians through the Riders Minds resources on the website, and the 24hr free, confidential helpline.

To find out more about Riders Minds and the mental health and well-being support offered go to: https://ridersminds.org/.

All of the Riders Minds services are free, 100% confidential and accessible 24 hours a day. If you would like to talk to one of our trained team please call the helpline on 0800 088 2073, or text 07480 488 103, or you can access the web chat through the website.