Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 12-18th of May. This week is run by the Mental Health Foundation as a way of raising awareness around mental health and promoting mental wellbeing for all. Mental health affects our physical health and connects to every aspect of our lives, so the importance of bettering society’s understanding is immeasurable.
This year’s theme is ‘community’ and highlights the importance of a safe and supportive community for mental wellbeing. This theme also celebrates the power and importance of community. Being part of a safe and positive community can be a vital part of our mental health and wellbeing.
5 steps to positive mental wellbeing can be:
- Connecting with others – promotes a sense of community, belonging and self-worth
- Being physically active – great for physical and mental health
- Learning new skills – promotes a sense of purpose and helps to connect with others
- Giving to others – creates positive feelings, purpose and self-worth
- Mindfulness (being present in the moment) – helps change the way you feel about life
To get involved this week you can:
- Fundraise, donate or volunteer for a mental health organisation (such as the Mental Health Foundation or Mind or Mental Health UK or Rethink Mental Illness)
- Wear green all week at work or school, or order a green ribbon badge from the Mental Health Foundation (which you can wear all year-round to show your support for mental wellbeing and continue to help raise awareness)
- Share your support on social media using the hashtag #ThisIsMyCommunity.