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MENTAL Health Awareness Week runs from:- 12 May to 18 May across the UK. Run by Mental Health Foundation, this annual campaign aims to encourage people to find out more about how to nurture and protect good mental health and what actions they can take.

For over 20 years, the campaign has been helping to normalise conversations about mental health as it's important that people, particularly those at risk of poor mental health, know what they can do and where to get help.

As part of the campaign Mental Health Foundation will be giving out guidance about how to engage with your community to boost mental health and wellbeing. They are also calling on other groups, and organisations to help them celebrate the communities that support good mental health and wellbeing, in doing so highlighting the vital role that positive communities play in supporting mental health and wellbeing.

Alexa Knight, Director at Mental Health Foundation, said:- "Community is an essential protective factor for our mental health. It gives us a sense of belonging and purpose, and it provides support when we need it most. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we want to celebrate the diverse and vibrant communities that contribute to our wellbeing and encourage people and organisations to get involved and share their own positive experiences of community. Share your stories, photographs and videos on social media #ThisIsMyCommunity #MentalHealthAwareness Week and don't forget to tag Mental Health Foundation."

Mental Health Foundation also reminds us that the community can support good mental health, not only by tackling social isolation, but also by giving us a sense of belonging, safety, purpose and support. People who are more socially connected to family, friends, or their community are happier, physically healthier, and live longer. They typically have lower stress levels and fewer mental health problems than less well-connected people. For businesses, they work harder and are more loyal to a business, resulting in better work output and profits.

The Mental Health Foundation, says:- "We can find community in different places and can belong to more than 1. It is based on a common experience that binds you together which may be the neighbourhood you live in, your workplace or school, your faith, a hobby group, a sports team, a campaigning organisation, volunteering, living with a long-term health condition, being a parent, or even a love of Taylor Swift. A healthy community is one where you feel that you will be supported, and you will support others. It will make you feel good about yourself. The benefits of community are not only limited to what we receive, but also what we give to our communities. Evidence shows that being kind serves as an antidote to isolation and also helps us feel that we belong. It helps reduce stress, brings a fresh perspective, deepens friendships, and can even improve feelings of confidence and optimism."

Oart of the Mental Health Awareness Week included:- 'Wear It Green Day!'

Let's turn the world green for good mental health! This event will be held on:- Thursday, 15 May 2025

The Mental Health Foundation hopes people, schools and businesses will organise a fun event and that people will don their favourite green clothes. By going green, you can support us in carrying out vital research and delivering programmes for communities who are at higher risk of poor mental health. Mental Health Foundation has all the resources you'll need to run your event, whether you're holding a quiz at work, baking some treats for your family, or holding a scavenger hunt at your school.

Organise a Wear It Green Day in your school, workplace or community and help to raise vital funds and awareness for mental health.

Find out more and download your Wear It Green Day pack at:- MentalHealth.Org.UK.

Tips to engage with the community to boost mental health and wellbeing are now available for FREE to bot:- read and/or download as a .pdf from:- MentalHealth.Org.UK/MHAW.

These are a few extra tips we have been given by the Mental Health Foundation to improve your mental health:-

Make it fun. 1 of the best ways to connect with others is by doing activities you enjoy. Join a club or group that focuses on your interests, like sports, music, reading or gaming. You'll likely meet people who enjoy the same things as you.
Get outdoors. Spending time outdoors can help you move more, which can improve your physical and mental health. You can also get the added benefits that come with being close to nature. And, it opens up chances for casual social interactions. Go for walks, join a running or cycling group, or spend time in a community garden to feel more connected.
Find like minded people. Look for groups that match your interests, beliefs, faith or values, as it's easier to start conversations with people who have similar views. But don't be afraid to meet people who are different, too. Connecting with a variety of people can help you learn and grow!
Show kindness to others. Simple acts of kindness can help you feel that you belong. Chatting with your neighbours, greeting people at your local café, or starting a conversation at the bus stop can lead to new friendships. Small acts of kindness, like helping someone with their shopping or smiling at people you pass, can also make you feel more connected and spread positivity.
Show your appreciation. We often think kind things about others but don't always say them. Letting people know you appreciate them can strengthen friendships and help you make new ones.
Become part of an online community. In-person socialising may be difficult for some people, such as those with mobility issues, social anxiety, or limited time because of a busy work and home life. In these situations, online communities can be a great alternative. But before searching for online communities, it's important to know that not all online communities are good for your mental health. A healthy community should make you feel safe, valued and connected, not drained and anxious. Be mindful of spaces that promote hate, unrealistic beauty standards, or harmful behaviours.
Volunteer or give to charity. Helping others can build a sense of community and give you purpose. Volunteering at food banks, local charity shops or animal rescue centres can lower your stress and make you feel happier.
Care for your local community. Taking care of your environment can make you feel more connected. Joining in on litter pick-ups, community gardening or organising local events are great ways to meet people and feel part of where you live.

If you need help, don't be afraid to ask. Find peer support groups if you're struggling. If you're going through a difficult time, connecting with others who've had similar experiences can be really helpful. Peer support groups can provide comfort and reassurance and remind you that you're not alone.

They also suggest you welcome new members to your community. New people often want to make connections, so try introducing yourself to newcomers. You could:-

Say:- “Hello” to a new neighbour.
Introduce yourself to a new work colleague.
Invite someone new to a community event.
Offer local recommendations to someone who's just moved to the area.

During the Week, the Mental Health Foundation will be encouraging people to share their own experiences of communities and the positive impact they've had on their mental health and wellbeing.

To find out the Mental Health Foundation visit:- MentalHealth.Org.UK