In today’s fast-paced world, where the demands of work, personal life, and societal pressures can often feel overwhelming, it’s crucial to prioritize mental health and well-being. Monument Health is proud to launch its Inaugural Ok2StepAway Challenge, in partnerships with Hilltop Community Resources. Set to run throughout the entire month of October, Ok2StepAway aims to empower individuals to embrace their mental health journey. This effort, starting on October 1st and culminating with a 5k event on October 28th, features a series of weekly themes designed to encourage open conversations about mental health, promote self-care, and build a supportive community.
Throughout the entire month of October, participants are encouraged to visit the Ok2StepAway portal (Register Here), for valuable resources, workbooks, and a step tracker. The step tracker allows users to log their physical activity, fostering a sense of community and motivation to stay active, which is known to have positive effects on mental health. The portal also offers valuable resources and workbooks tailored to each week’s theme. These resources will guide individuals in finding ways to step away from their daily stressors, ask for help when they need it, recognize that even if they aren’t okay, it’s okay, and support others who are struggling.
Learn more about each weekly challenge below or register here:
Week 1: It’s Okay to Step Away
The first week of the Ok2StepAway Campaign focuses on the importance of taking time for oneself and nurturing a healthy work-life balance. In a world driven by deadlines and constant connectivity, people often neglect their own well-being. Week 1 reminds us that it’s not only acceptable but essential to step away from our busy lives, recharge, and prioritize self-care. This theme encourages participants to reflect on their work-life balance and make necessary adjustments to improve their mental health.
Week 2: It’s Okay to Ask for Help
Week 2 of the campaign is dedicated to destigmatizing asking for help when struggling with mental health issues. It emphasizes the importance of seeking support and reaching out to friends, family, or professionals when needed. Many people hesitate to ask for help due to fear, shame, or misconceptions about mental health. This week aims to break down those barriers and encourage individuals to speak up about their challenges.
Week 3: It’s Okay to Not Feel Okay
Sometimes, individuals battling mental health issues feel isolated and misunderstood. Week 3 of the Ok2StepAway Campaign emphasizes that it’s entirely okay to not feel okay. This theme aims to create a safe space for people to understand their struggles, knowing they are not alone in their journey. It promotes empathy and understanding within the community, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
Week 4: It’s Okay to Support Others
The final week of the campaign encourages participants to actively support others in their mental health journey. It’s about removing the stigma associated with offering help and teaching individuals how to provide meaningful support to those in need. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can create a more compassionate society.
October 28, 2023: 5K
While the campaign concludes with a 5k event on October 28th, the details for the event will be communicated to all participants through a future letter. This event serves as a culmination of the month-long efforts, bringing together a community that has actively engaged with the campaign’s themes and resources.
The Ok2StepAway Campaign is a timely and essential initiative that promotes mental health, self-care, and community support. By embracing the weekly themes, participants can work toward a healthier work-life balance, reduce the stigma around seeking help, find solace in shared experiences, and become more effective allies to those in need.
In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, the Ok2StepAway Campaign reminds us that it’s okay to prioritize our well-being and support others on their journey to mental wellness. To join this transformative movement, sign up on the Ok2StepAway portal, and let October be a month of self-discovery, healing, and community building.