Every year, World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10, and the World Health Organization focuses on a theme for global mental health. This year’s theme is “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change.”

At Crestwood, we honor the lived experience of the people we serve. We recognize the challenges many have been through, and we meet those we serve with humility, grace, and respect. We realize there is much to learn from those who have walked the path of recovery first-hand. There is a wisdom and understanding that comes when we listen to the stories and insights of individuals with lived experience, whether they are a person served, a co-worker, a family member, or friend.

This World Mental Health Day, will you join with others across the globe in listening to the voices of those with lived experience? There can be a universal impact when those with lived experience share their stories because the sharing of stories breaks down barriers, reduces stigma, fosters connections, and sparks hope.

As part of the Crestwood family, let’s make a difference this World Mental Health Day and every day by being those who listen deeply, share boldly, and recognize the importance of mental health in our communities and around the world.

In honor of World Mental Health Day, please enjoy this guided lovingkindness mediation.

Begin by finding a quiet place to sit for a few minutes. Relax into your seat and take a few deep cleansing breaths, inhaling fully and exhaling completely.

Begin by thinking of yourself, with gentleness and acceptance, and meditate on the following phrases: May I be compassionate to myself and those around me. May I be resilient when facing challenges. May I prioritize my mental health and wellbeing.

Now, expand your thoughts to include your immediate Crestwood family, both your fellow staff and the persons served at your campus. Hold the thought of them in your mind and send out thoughts of lovingkindness to them: May you be compassionate to yourselves and those around you. May you be resilient when facing challenges. May you prioritize your mental health and wellbeing.

Next, expand your reach to include all of our Crestwood campuses throughout California. Send those positive thoughts to them as well, from San Diego to Eureka: May you be compassionate to yourselves and those around you. May you be resilient when facing challenges. May you prioritize your mental health and wellbeing.

Now, widen your reach of lovingkindness to include our whole country, every individual from the West Coast to the East Coast: May you be compassionate to yourselves and those around you. May you be resilient when facing challenges. May you prioritize your mental health and wellbeing.

And finally, send your thoughts of lovingkindness out to every person on the planet, especially in recognition of World Mental Health Day: May we be compassionate to ourselves and those around us. May we be resilient when facing challenges. May we prioritize our mental health and wellbeing.

Take a few moments to breathe in deeply and exhale slowly. How did this experience make you feel? Lighter, more aware, more compassionate? Notice this and if you like, reflect on those positive feelings throughout your day.