THE JOURNAL
Illustrated by Mr Matt Murphy
“Looking good on the outside doesn’t count for much if you don’t feel good on the inside, too.” This has been the mantra of MR PORTER’s Health in Mind (HIM) initiative since it launched five years ago. HIM was founded to drive conversations and positive action around mental health and, ultimately, to help build lives that are happier, healthier and more fulfilling. We might not have all the answers but, five years on, our dedication to keep the conversations going is as strong as ever.
And the action goes beyond talking, too. To mark the anniversary, we have announced an exciting partnership with the charity Movember on Ahead of the Game, a programme offering workshops in grassroots football clubs across London, targeting areas that are the most in need when it comes to mental health intervention strategies. Provided by Movember-trained facilitators, Ahead of the Game gives training to players, parents and coaches in better understanding mental health, building mental fitness and strengthening resilience to deal with challenges in sport and life.
From the start, HIM has prioritised the need to normalise talking about mental health – or, more simply, how we’re feeling. Below, we look back at some of the important topics we have covered over five years in The Journal.
01. Wellbeing
Rather than quick fixes and fast-forgotten resolutions, discover ways to better look after yourself in the long term, focused on realistic changes. From developing helpful daily habits and routines to navigating the most difficult times, our wellbeing guides span the tools needed to make a lasting difference to your life.
02. Physical health
Recognising the impact of the physical on the psychological, we champion the healing powers of being active and getting into the great outdoors. With our Go Out series, we celebrate taking adventures that also forge close relationships and communities – from urban hikes in Tokyo, to fishing in New York and camping in the Scandinavian wilderness.
03. Parenting
There may not be a manual to parenthood, but there are guides to give support through the myriad challenges of raising a child – sharing wisdom, lessons and overcoming inevitable mistakes.
04. Anxiety
Whether it’s tied to catastrophic world events, something closer to home or internal struggles, an anxiety epidemic is being faced. The importance of opening up, checking in, and seeking support is undeniable when it comes to managing your mental wellbeing.
05. Work
Spending so much of our time at work, it makes sense to cultivate a supportive culture and a healthy mindset around it – from alleviating stress and avoiding burnout, to knowing your rights and realising your potential.
06. Relationships
Long-term partners, old friends, budding connections and new acquaintances, our relationship advice is dedicated to sustaining and strengthening the bonds that enrich our lives.
