Mental Health Matters: Everyday Steps for a Healthier Mind
- Ian Hurst
- May 16
- 3 min read

At We Are Hummingbird Health, we believe that mental health matters, it shouldn't just be part of the conversation, it should be at the heart of it. In a world where burnout is worn like a badge of honour and "I'm fine" masks real struggles, we're here to challenge the norm and support a better way forward.
Mental health affects everything. It affects how we think, feel, work, and connect with others. And yet, for many, it's the last thing on the to-do list. It shouldn't be. You don't have to be in crisis to prioritise your mental health. In fact, it's often the small, consistent habits that make the biggest difference.
So what does that look like in everyday life?
1. Start with the basics
Sleep, food, movement. You've heard it before, but that's because it works. A good night's sleep helps regulate mood and decision-making. Regular movement, whether that's a run, a walk, or dancing in the kitchen, can reduce stress and release endorphins. And food fuels more than your body, it feeds your brain. Diets rich in whole foods, especially leafy greens, oily fish, and legumes, support better mental function.
2. Check in with yourself
Not just "How are you?" but "How am I really?" Build in small check-ins throughout your week. You might jot down how you're feeling or simply take a few minutes to sit in silence. Mindfulness and meditation aren't just about emptying your mind, they're about noticing what's going on without judgement. That pause can stop spiralling thoughts before they take hold.
3. Connect with others
We're wired for connection, but when life gets busy, we often isolate ourselves. Whether it's a catch-up over coffee, a call to a mate, or just being present with your family, meaningful connection helps ground us. It reminds us we're not alone, especially on the hard days.
4. Set realistic expectations
Modern life makes it easy to feel "not enough." Social media can make it seem like everyone else is thriving while you're treading water. The truth? Everyone struggles. Be kind to yourself. Break goals into small, doable steps. Celebrate progress, not perfection.
5. Don't wait until it's unbearable
This one's important. You don't need to wait for a crisis to ask for help. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not yourself, speaking to a professional can make a huge difference. There's strength in saying "I need support." It can be the first step toward real change.
From Awareness to Action
We offer our courses to organisations and businesses who want to support the mental health of their people. Our training equips teams with the tools to better understand mental health, recognise the signs when someone may be struggling, and know how to respond with confidence and care. From Mental Health First Aid to Suicide First Aid, everything we deliver is practical, compassionate, and designed to build a healthier workplace culture.
We don't just talk about mental health, we live it. Our trainers bring their own stories, including real-world experience in corporate life and counselling training. We understand the pressures of work, family, and the mask we sometimes wear to keep going. That's why our approach is human, honest, and designed to meet people where they are.
Let's change the conversation... Because Mental Health Matters!
Mental health isn't about ticking a box or waiting for someone else to act. It's about building an environment where it's okay to not be okay, and where people feel equipped and empowered to step in when it matters. Whether you're taking care of your own mental well-being or supporting those around you, you're already part of the change.
From daily habits and supportive conversations to seeking help and sharing lived experiences, the steps we take, big or small, help shape a world where mental health is understood, supported, and valued.
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