World Mental Health Day 2025: Q&A with Taskize’s Head of Talent

Every year on 10 October, the world comes together to mark World Mental Health Day – a reminder of the importance of good mental health and the collective responsibility we all share in protecting and supporting it. 

This year’s theme, “Access to services: mental health in catastrophes and emergencies,” highlights the need to ensure people can look after their mental health during times of global instability. Whether faced with personal challenges or larger crises, access to mental health support can make all the difference. 

At Taskize, we believe mental well-being is not just a topic for one day a year – it’s something we need to nurture, protect, and talk openly about every day. To mark this year’s occasion, we sit down with Monika Jancewicz, our Head of Talent and a Mental Health First Aider, to hear her personal reflections on what this day means to her and how we can all support one another. 

Q: What does World Mental Health Day mean to you personally? 

Monika: “For me, World Mental Health Day is a reminder to pause and reflect, not just on how others are doing, but on how we ourselves are feeling. Mental health matters every day, helping someone feel seen or heard costs nothing, but it can make a huge difference. 

I know this personally: I came to this country with just £200 in my pocket, couldn’t speak English, and the journey was mentally challenging. But with the support of others, what once felt impossible became possible. That experience taught me the power of connection, empathy, and being there for one another.” 

Q: Why did you decide to become a Mental Health First Aider? 

Monika: “I became a Mental Health First Aider because I wanted to be that supportive person for others, someone who listens without judgment and helps guide people towards the support they need. It is incredible how much even a small gesture of care can change someone’s day, or even their life.” 

Q: What’s one small thing we can all do at work to support our own mental well-being? 

Monika: “In our busy work lives, one simple way to support our mental well-being is to take real breaks – step outside, breathe, or just pause for a few minutes. Treat yourself to a little pick-me-up, like a cup of tea or a small chocolate. Helping others can boost our own happiness too: ask a colleague how they are doing, book a random ‘tea’ call on Teams, or leave a note (or chocolate!) on someone’s desk. Small gestures like these can make a big difference for both you and those around you.” 

Q: What’s one resource, tip, or practice you’d recommend for maintaining work-life balance? 

Monika: “Connect with nature! Over the weekend, I love hiking, gardening, and growing my own food. These moments reconnect me with nature, help me reset, and remind me of what truly matters. Spending time with friends or my cats also keeps me grounded and helps me switch off from work.”