Charlie Mackesy’s ‘Look How Far We’ve Come’ exhibit at Sotheby’s London showcased 60+ original drawings, sparking mental‑health dialogue and generating over £2 million in sales.
Mental Health
When talking about mental health, the state of our emotional, psychological, and social well‑being. Also known as psychological well‑being, it shapes how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Speaking of stress, the stress, a natural reaction to demanding situations often triggers the need for resilience – the ability to bounce back, which resilience, the capacity to recover from adversity provides. Together, stress and resilience feed into overall wellbeing, another key piece of the puzzle: wellbeing, a balanced state of physical, mental and social health. In short, mental health encompasses wellbeing, requires resilience, and is constantly influenced by stress.
Why Mental Health Matters Across All Stories
Even a headline about a cyberattack at a car factory can echo mental‑health concerns. When Jaguar Land Rover shut its lines after a ransomware breach, the sudden loss of routine, looming financial strain and uncertainty for over 30,000 workers created massive stress. That stress tested each employee’s resilience, shaping how they coped with long‑hour shifts, job security worries, and the pressure to keep production moving. Similarly, a high‑stakes football match like Marseille versus PSG brings crowd excitement, but also performance anxiety for players and fans alike. The adrenaline rush can boost morale, yet unchecked pressure may erode mental health if not balanced with proper support. Even a business move such as Papas Group taking over Wetherspoon pubs introduces new managerial responsibilities, staffing challenges and market competition—all triggers for stress that demand resilient leadership to protect staff wellbeing.
Beyond corporate and sports arenas, cultural shifts and lifestyle choices intertwine with mental health. The rise of rally‑car drifting showcases daring skill, but drivers constantly manage fear, split‑second decisions, and physical risk, all of which impact psychological steadiness. Researchers studying cultural evolution note that societies adapt their attitudes toward mental health over time, spreading ideas that either stigmatize or normalize seeking help. Meanwhile, something as simple as a wine basket can influence social wellbeing; sharing a bottle over a relaxed evening often reduces stress and nurtures connection, yet excessive alcohol consumption can undermine mental health. By looking at these diverse stories, readers can see how everyday events touch on stress, resilience, and wellbeing, reminding us that mental health isn’t a separate chapter—it’s woven through work, sport, culture, and leisure. Below, you’ll find a curated mix of articles that illustrate these links, offering practical takeaways and fresh perspectives on fostering a healthier mind.