World Mental Health Day – Protecting your energy: living well with disability and long-term health conditions
This World Mental Health Day (10 October), let’s talk, listen, and support better mental health together. It reminds us why good mental health is so important, and how we can prioritise it in our lives and communities. It’s also a moment to talk openly and listen to what others are experiencing.
The theme for 2026 is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.” Conversations about mental health make a difference. And they matter most when we listen to people’s experiences.
For World Mental Health Day, CAMHS Associate Practitioner and Vice-Chair of the DisAbility Staff Network Karen Martin has written a blog on living well with disability and long-term health conditions. Karen shares practical strategies for managing energy, embracing flexibility, and supporting your wellbeing throughout the working day.
Many NHS colleagues live with disabilities, long-term health conditions, neurodivergence, mental health challenges, as well as caring responsibilities. For some of us, energy levels can fluctuate from day to day, making it important to work with the energy available rather than against it.
One helpful way to understand this is through Spoon Theory, a concept often used within disability and chronic illness communities. The theory describes energy as a limited resource, represented by “spoons.” Every activity, from getting ready for work and attending meetings to providing patient care and managing everyday tasks, uses some of these spoons. On some days, you may have plenty; on others, you may start with fewer available.
Importantly, your worth is not defined by your productivity. Having a lower-energy day does not reflect your commitment, capability, or value as a colleague. Adapting expectations and routines to meet your current needs can help create a more balanced way to maintain wellbeing.
Supporting yourself on low-energy days:
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Prioritise what matters most
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Focus on essential tasks first and consider what can be delayed, delegated, or simplified
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Example: rather than completing a large project all at once, focus on one section or one achievable step at a time
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Use the “skip, shrink, swap” approach
When energy is limited:
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Skip low risk tasks that can wait
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Shrink tasks into smaller, manageable actions
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Swap tasks for easier alternatives where possible
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Example: Attend a meeting virtually instead of travelling or send an email rather than arranging a phone call (or vice versa)
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Create a supportive environment
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Consider adjustments that help reduce unnecessary physical, mental, or sensory demands
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Example: Use noise-cancelling headphones, reduce screen brightness, take regular breaks, or ask for a reasonable adjustment like working in a quieter space where possible
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Acknowledge your feelings
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It’s natural to feel disappointed or frustrated when health needs affect plans. Giving yourself permission to recognise these emotions can be an important part of self-care
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Remember that self-care can look different every day
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Self-care doesn’t always have to be a major activity. Sometimes it’s about making small adjustments that help preserve energy and make the day more manageable
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Wellbeing reflection
“What is one thing I can simplify, adapt, or let go of today to protect my energy and wellbeing?”
Key takeaway
Living well with disability or a long-term health condition is not about doing everything. It’s about recognising your needs, making use of available support and adjustments, and using your energy in ways that help you stay well and thrive both at work and beyond.
