This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week, a time to open up the conversation, tackle stigma and prioritise our mental wellbeing.

With it shaping up to be the hottest spring on record here in the UK, I’ve noticed how much the sunshine and longer days help lift my mood and I know many friends feel exactly the same. Small things really can make a real difference.

Life has a way of throwing us off course. It can feel overwhelming, disorienting and, at times, isolating. But acknowledging these emotions as part of being human is often the first step toward finding balance and perspective. Most importantly, we’re not alone in facing them.

We spend so much of our lives at work, whether that’s in an office, on back-to-back video calls or working solo. The relationships we build with colleagues, clients and collaborators matter. That’s why fostering a work culture of emotional intelligence is so important, where we’re aware, respectful and supportive of one another. Kindness and empathy go a long way.

At The Work Crowd, we work with independent professionals every day. Many choose freelancing for greater flexibility and work-life balance. Whether that’s stepping out for a midday walk, taking breaks when needed or shaping a routine that fits their lifestyle, that flexibility can play a big role in supporting overall wellbeing.

But in practice, it’s not always that simple.

Freelancers often find themselves spinning multiple plates, caught in an “always-on” culture. The line between work and rest can blur quickly. That’s why it’s crucial to pause, prioritise and make space for what really matters and that includes your own mental health.

Next week, we’re continuing this conversation in our LinkedIn Live event in partnership with the PRCA: “The Family Juggle: Combining a Comms Career with Parenthood” on Tuesday 21^st May at 1.30PM. It’s another balancing act that many of us face every day and one worth talking about.

Prioritising your mental health isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Whether that means saying no, stepping away from your laptop, heading to a class or simply getting out for a walk and enjoying some sunshine. Small acts can have a big impact.

Let’s keep talking. Let’s keep checking in. And let’s keep making space for ourselves and for each other.