APS has collated useful resources, guides and more to help the psychology profession spread an important message to mark World Mental Health Day (10 October) - strong mental health is an everyday practice.
As psychologists know, mental health and wellbeing is more than the absence of distress. It is something that grows through daily, intentional practices – a theme the APS is highlighting in line with this year’s World Mental Health Day on 10 October.
To bring this idea to life, the APS has produced a video for psychologists to share with their clients and community, showcasing how simple 'micro-moments' of wellbeing can have profound, lasting impact.
Below, we share more practical resources to help members share evidence-based strategies with clients and communities to help them reframe mental health and wellbeing as an everyday practice rather than something only attended to in times of crisis.
From crisis response to prevention
For too long, mental health has been understood primarily through the lens of illness, says Dr Burgess. While psychological intervention remains essential – APS's 2025 Thinking Futures report found six in 10 ten Australians place high value on psychological services – an overemphasis on treatment overlooks the value of prevention and daily maintenance.
“Mental health exists on a continuum. It’s not a state of being well versus unwell, it’s something that can be nurtured – just like physical fitness," says Dr Zena Burgess, CEO of the APS.
"Small, intentional actions taken each day can build resilience and protect against future struggles.
“However, it’s important to note that it’s not always within the individual’s control. There are social, genetic and environmental factors that can play a major tole. While intentional, daily wellbeing practices can support stronger mental health, they can’t guarantee it.”
Prevention 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.
Psychologists can play a key role in helping clients identify, practise and sustain these micro-moments of wellbeing.
“The beauty of micro-moments of mental health care is that they are accessible to everyone. You don’t need expensive equipment or hours of free time," says Dr Burgess. "What matters is consistency – the daily decisions that shape how we feel, connect and function.”
By shifting focus from responses to crises to ongoing habits, psychologists can empower clients to see themselves as active agents in their own wellbeing, while recognising that sustainable mental health also depends on supportive social and environmental conditions.
A practical toolkit for psychologists
To translate this philosophy into practice, the APS has collated the following resources for psychologists to share with clients and communities.
These include:
“As psychologists, we are well placed to translate complex science into practical steps people can act on each day,” says Dr Burgess. “Every time we do that – in schools, workplaces or community settings – we strengthen the public’s confidence that psychology is here to support them, not only in times of crisis but in everyday life.”
APS resources are evidence-based, freely available, easy to digest and ready to share, making them perfect for psychologists to share on World Mental Health Day and beyond.
"We encourage our members to spread this message," says Dr Burgess. "It extends the psychologist’s reach, helping more Australians take charge of their mental health at a time when our profession is facing a shortage of psychologists amid a growing mental health crisis."
Caring for your own mental health
Dr Burgess also encourages psychologists to put their own mental health front of mind, citing the complexity and emotional strain of their roles.
"You are constantly sitting with people in some of the most difficult and challenging moments of their lives. You're holding space for them; you're navigating challenges with them; you're hearing their stories of trauma, struggle and challenge. It's important work, and work we all feel privileged to be able to do, but it's also exhausting work."
She encourages APS members to take advantage of APS Professional development eLearning activities Self-care for psychologists and Wellbeing and you activity, both of which are available free to APS members.
"The message of putting your oxygen mask on first is one we often cite, but it's critical. Our psychology profession needs to protect their own health, wellbeing and energy in order to sustain the important work that you do."
A shared responsibility
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 and employers also have a responsibility to create environments where wellbeing can flourish.
"Psychologists can guide, support and equip people with tools, but ultimately it’s the everyday choices made by individuals, families, employers and communities that shape outcomes.”
APS plans to continue developing resources that bridge research and practice, making psychology more accessible to the public while reinforcing the profession’s leadership.
“We want Australians to see psychology not as something distant or intimidating. But as a trusted guide for everyday living," says Dr Burgess.