National Shrink Day is an annual celebration dedicated to honoring psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and other mental health professionals. This special day recognizes the significant contributions these professionals make to society by helping individuals maintain and improve their mental well-being.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: September 5th
- Tagged as: Mental Health Awareness Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalShrinkDay
- When was it founded?: The exact founding year is unclear, but it was created as a tribute to Bob Newhart
- Who founded it?: Created as an homage to Bob Newhart, who played a psychiatrist on “The Bob Newhart Show”
History of National Shrink Day
National Shrink Day was established to celebrate and recognize the important role that mental health professionals play in our communities. The date, September 5th, was specifically chosen because it’s Bob Newhart’s birthday, honoring his portrayal of a psychiatrist in the popular television series “The Bob Newhart Show.” The term “shrink” itself has an interesting history, originating from the word “headshrinker,” a colloquial term for psychiatrists that first appeared around 1895.
Over time, this day has evolved to become a broader celebration of mental health awareness and the professionals who dedicate their careers to helping others navigate psychological challenges. It serves as a reminder of how far the field of psychology has come and the growing importance of mental health care in modern society.
Timeline
- 1800s: Early systematic studies of human psychology begin with scientists like Gustav Fechner and Wilhelm Wundt
- 1895: The term “shrink” first appears as colloquialism for psychiatrists
- 1950s: The term “shrink” becomes firmly established in popular culture
- 1972-1978: “The Bob Newhart Show” airs, featuring Bob Newhart as psychologist Dr. Robert Hartley
Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 5 | Friday |
| 2026 | September 5 | Saturday |
| 2027 | September 5 | Sunday |
| 2028 | September 5 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | September 5 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | September 5 | Thursday |
How National Shrink Day is Observed
People celebrate National Shrink Day in various ways, from expressing gratitude to their therapists to raising awareness about mental health issues. Many take the opportunity to binge-watch psychology-themed TV shows like “The Sopranos,” “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” or “The Bob Newhart Show.” Others use the day to educate themselves about psychology by reading books on the subject or attending community events focused on mental health awareness.
Some mental health organizations and institutions organize special events, workshops, or free consultations on this day to promote the importance of mental health care and reduce the stigma surrounding seeking help for psychological issues.
Fun Facts About National Shrink Day
The term “shrink” comes from “headshrinker,” reflecting a time when tribal shamans were believed to possess the power to shrink heads. Today, it’s used as an informal, often affectionate term for mental health professionals.
While many mental health professionals prefer their formal titles in professional settings, the term “shrink” has become part of everyday language and is often used in a lighthearted manner.
Psychology as a formal discipline is relatively young compared to other sciences, with most major developments occurring only in the last 150 years.
Quiz
- On what date is National Shrink Day celebrated?
- Why was September 5th chosen as National Shrink Day?
- What does the term “shrink” originally derive from?
- Who is credited with developing the first systematic theory about human experience and behavior?
(Answers: 1. September 5th, 2. It’s Bob Newhart’s birthday, 3. The term “headshrinker”, 4. Gustav Fechner)
FAQs
Why is it called “Shrink Day”?
The term “shrink” is a colloquial term for psychiatrists and therapists, derived from “headshrinker.” National Shrink Day embraces this informal terminology while celebrating the important work of mental health professionals.
How can I celebrate National Shrink Day?
You can celebrate by thanking your therapist if you have one, learning more about mental health, watching psychology-themed shows, or participating in mental health awareness events in your community.
Is National Shrink Day only about psychiatrists?
No, National Shrink Day celebrates all mental health professionals, including psychologists, therapists, counselors, and social workers who contribute to mental wellness.
Importance of National Shrink Day
National Shrink Day highlights the crucial role mental health professionals play in today’s increasingly complex world. As awareness of mental health issues grows, this day serves as a reminder of the value these professionals bring to individuals and communities.
The day also helps reduce stigma around seeking mental health support by normalizing conversations about therapy and psychological well-being. It provides an opportunity to educate the public about different mental health services available and encourages people to prioritize their mental health just as they would their physical health.
In a time when mental health challenges are becoming more recognized and prevalent, National Shrink Day stands as a celebration of those who help us navigate our inner worlds and develop healthier, more resilient minds.
Related Holidays
- Mental Health Awareness Month (May)
- World Mental Health Day (October 10)
- National Stress Awareness Day (First Wednesday in November)
- National Psychotherapy Day (September 25)
- National Depression Screening Day (October)