Get active this World Mental Health Day

Exercise is proven to lift mood, improve general wellbeing and naturally release endorphins. So why not try out the University’s SportsPark gym facilities for free this World Mental Health Day (Thursday 10 October)?

Just turn up and speak to one of our friendly reception staff who will direct you to the gym facilities, where a fitness instructor will be on the gym floor should you need any guidance or support.

The offer is available 07:00 – 17:00 on Thursday 10 October 2024, and is open to University of Reading students, staff and local community members. Visit the SportsPark website for more information about the facilities.

Wellbeing at work

The theme for this year’s event is mental health at work. We know that there are challenges and uncertainties in our sector at the moment, and it’s important to take time for our wellbeing at work.

As well as exercise either at the gym or one of the wellbeing walks in our beautiful grounds, here are some other ways you can access support:

• Consult our Wellbeing at Work support resources, including our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which has guidance on dealing with all sorts of daily stressors and difficult circumstances. You can also access 24/7 support through the EAP advice line on 0800 085 1376.
• Join the World Mental Health Day webinar run by our EAP from 16:00-17:00 on Thursday 10 October.
• Speak to your line manager about pressures and challenges at work and see if you can agree changes that will help. If you manage others, take time to check in with them and support their wellbeing. As well as our own support resources and the EAP support for managers, there are tips on talking about burnout and championing mental health at work on the World Mental Health Day website.
• Our Mental Health and Wellbeing Peer Support Network is a group of trained colleagues who can lend a confidential ear as an informal first point of contact, and advise on other support available.