Australia's peak body for psychology, The Australian Psychological Society (APS) is encouraging communities this World Mental Health Day to treat their mental health like they do their physical fitness - and build it through micro-moments of wellbeing.
"For too long, mental health has been understood primarily through the lens of illness," says APS CEO Dr Zena Burgess.
While psychological intervention can be an important part of recovering and building resilience, the APS's 2025 Thinking Futures report found six in ten Australians place high value on psychological services – greater emphasis on prevention and everyday wellbeing is needed to build resilience.
"We can strengthen our mental health like our physical fitness," says Dr Zena Burgess, APS CEO.
"Small, intentional actions taken each day can build resilience and protect against future struggles.
"Mental health is more than the absence of distress.
"It is something that grows through daily, intentional practices – micro-moments of wellbeing," adds Dr Burgess.
Prevention of mental ill-health is not simply about reducing risk factors, but about embedding protective behaviours – mindfulness, exercise, quality sleep, and social connection – into the rhythms of everyday life.
"The beauty of micro-moments of mental health care is that they are accessible to everyone," says Dr Burgess.
"Even small, intentional connections, such as a quick conversation with a friend, neighbour or even a barista have been found to improve wellbeing," says Dr Burgess.
"You don't need expensive equipment or hours of free time. What matters is consistency – the daily decisions that shape how we feel, connect and function," says Dr Burgess. This World Mental Health Day is a reminder that mental health belongs to everyone.
"While psychologists play a critical role in providing evidence-based care, the broader community also has a responsibility to create environments where wellbeing can flourish.
"Mental health and wellbeing are also socially, structurally and economically determined.
"Psychologists can guide, support and equip people with tools, but ultimately it's the everyday choices made by individuals, families, employers, governments and communities that shape outcomes," says Dr Burgess.
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