Today is World Mental Health Awareness Day; a day dedicated to shining a light on something that affects us all, yet too often hides in the shadows.
At Shooting Star Entertainments, we’ve spent the best part of the last three years touring our show Captain Wonderweb and the Esteem Machine around Kent, in collaboration with the NHS. The show is designed to help children understand and talk about their feelings. But really, its message is one that every one of us, at every age, needs to hear. And that includes us.
Touring life is rewarding, but it can also be tough. Our core team of performers can end up performing the same show seven times a day five days a week. And they always give it their all. After a while, that can take its toll.
Our brains need all the help they can get. More so now than ever before. And while today is a powerful reminder, our mission has always been to make every day a mental health awareness day.
With that in mind, here are five simple but essential ways you can support your mental wellbeing, starting today:
1. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is sacred. It’s one of the most important gifts you can give yourself, a chance for your body and mind to repair, recharge, and prepare for whatever life throws your way. Protect it fiercely. If you get the chance, check out Matthew Walker's Ultimate Guide for Perfect Sleep.
2. Stay Active
Movement is medicine. Whether it’s running, swimming, cycling, or a simple walk with the dog (who, let’s be honest, needs the exercise too), staying active boosts not just your physical health, but your mood, resilience, and sense of wellbeing.
3. Eat A Balanced Diet
No fad diets. No cutting out entire food groups. Nourish yourself by finding balance. Everything in moderation. Enjoy the foods you love alongside the foods that are good for you. And if something happens to tick both boxes? Win-win. A good no-nonsense resource for food? The Glucose Revolution on Youtube. It's a great deep dive into real science behind eating.
4. Use Less Technology
We’re all a little addicted — I’m writing this on my phone right now, and you’re reading it on a screen. But stepping away matters. Especially in the evenings - this can help you with sleep! Even a small break from the scroll can create space for play, conversation, and real human connection… which brings us to:
5. Speak Your Feelings
We’re facing a serious loneliness epidemic, and too often our emotions end up misdirected or bottled up. It’s vital to reach out, to a friend, a family member, anyone who’s willing to listen, and speak about what’s weighing on you. Connection is one of the most powerful tools we have for healing. And if you're struggling to find someone to speak with? Here are a few places that you can reach out to -
Samaritans – 24/7 support
📞 Call 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
A confidential helpline for anyone struggling to cope, feeling overwhelmed, or needing someone to talk to, day or night.
Mind – Mental health support and resources
Mind offers information, guidance, and peer support for a wide range of mental health challenges. You can also use their Infoline (0300 123 3393) for advice.
Shout – 24/7 text support
📱 Text SHOUT to 85258
A free, confidential text service available 24/7 if you’re experiencing a mental health crisis and need support without talking on the phone.
YoungMinds – Support for children, teens, and parents
Fantastic for young people or families concerned about a child’s mental health.
📞 Parents helpline: 0808 802 5544
CALM – Campaign Against Living Miserably
📞 Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or use their webchat
Specialises in supporting men and anyone feeling down or suicidal.
Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s one of the bravest things you can do.
The world is a tough place to be. But we can make it a little kinder, for ourselves and for each other, by taking small steps like these every day.
Look out for yourself. And look out for those around you.
With love,
The Shooting Star Entertainments Team