October 10th is Mental Health Day

October isn’t just about pumpkin patches and crisp fall weather; it’s also one of the most important months for mental health awareness and self-care. With observances like Mental Illness Awareness Week, World Mental Health Day (October 10), and OCD Awareness Week, this month is a reminder that it’s never too late to check in with yourself and take steps toward healing.

At Compass Counseling, we believe October is the perfect “second New Year”, a chance to pause, reflect, and commit to your mental well-being before the rush of the holidays begins.

Why October Matters for Mental Wellness

• Awareness Events Bring Focus
  October is full of national and global mental health awareness initiatives. These observances not only reduce stigma but also create opportunities for education, conversation, and seeking help.

• Seasonal Shifts Impact Mood
  The days are shorter, and cooler weather can affect our energy levels. Many people notice a dip in mood during the fall months, sometimes even early signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

• A “Second New Year” Opportunity
  Just as January inspires fresh starts, October naturally invites reflection and goal-setting. It’s a great time to evaluate your emotional health and realign with your priorities.

5 Ways to Support Your Mental Health This October

1. Set a Fall Reset Goal

Pick one small, meaningful habit to focus on this month. Whether it’s journaling, mindful breathing, or taking regular walks, choose something realistic that nurtures your emotional health.

2. Track Your Mood and Energy

Keep a simple mood journal to notice patterns in how sleep, weather, or stress affect your emotions. Recognizing these shifts early helps you manage them better, and it’s a helpful tool to bring into therapy.

3. Engage in Awareness Activities

Participate in World Mental Health Day (October 10) by joining online events, sharing mental health resources, or checking in on loved ones. Awareness weeks are also a great opportunity to learn more about specific conditions like OCD.

4. Create Cozy Self-Care Rituals

Fall invites us to slow down. Try simple practices like gratitude journaling, warm tea breaks, creative hobbies, or mindful nature walks among the changing leaves.

5. Reassess Your Support System

Are your current coping tools still serving you? Sometimes we outgrow strategies, and that’s okay. Therapy can help you build new skills for stress, anxiety, and relationship challenges.

How Therapy Can Help

At Compass Counseling, we support individuals, couples, and families with compassionate, personalized counseling. Our services address:

• Anxiety, depression, and mood concerns

• Stress and burnout

• Trauma and grief support

• OCD and intrusive thoughts

• Life transitions and relationship challenges

We provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be heard, understood, and equipped with tools to navigate life’s changes.

Take the Next Step This Fall

October is the perfect time to reset, not with pressure or perfectionism, but with gentle redirection toward what matters most. If you’ve been considering therapy, now is a powerful time to begin.

Schedule a Consultation with Compass Counseling and take the first step toward renewed clarity, balance, and peace of mind.