It's World Mental Health Day! Good feelings aren't always easy to find, especially right now and it's so important to talk about it. This season, we're looking beneath the comfort layers with Mind. A recent Mind survey revealed the overwhelming effect of coronavirus on our mental health. Two out of three adults over 25 and three-quarters of young people aged 13 to 24 with an existing mental health problem reported worse mental health as a direct result of the pandemic. Mind encourage us to ‘Do One Thing’ to help raise awareness or offer support. One of those things is sharing your story, and our inspiring Iconic Islanders wanted to share theirs to help break down mental health stigma.
PR Manager, Melissa, talks about her mental health journey while being a new mother and overcoming her anxiety. Editorial Manager, Jen, tells us about how a confident exterior doesn't always match up with what's going on inside. Senior HRBP, Jennie, discusses removing triggers and social media comparison. Senior Digital Designer, Chiara, opens up about her relationship with anxiety and finding comfort in creativity. Fashion Lead, Nat, shares her journey with anorexia and how opening up saved her. Freelance Designer, Oli, talks about the pressure for men to be strong and how journaling is his super tool. Sacha tells us about her struggles with self-esteem and the importance of working on your inside, not just your outside. And Branch Analyst, Ben, talks about his depression and the importance of community.
We're so proud of our Islanders and we hope their stories comfort and inspire you...
Don't forget, this season when you invest in River Island outerwear, you’ll be investing in mental health too with £2 from the sales of adults winter coats* going directly to mental health charity Mind.