Mental Health Awareness Week (11th – 17th May)
This Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May) theme is Action and while understanding mental health is important, awareness alone is not enough.
Real change happens when we take positive action to support our own wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.
Turning Awareness into Action
Learning about mental health, recognising signs of stress or anxiety, and knowing where to find support are all forms of action. Small steps can make a big difference and help create healthier, more supportive communities.
Action for Yourself
Looking after your mental health does not need to involve huge changes. Simple everyday habits can improve wellbeing over time, such as:
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Eating well
- Practising mindfulness or breathing exercises
- Taking short breaks when feeling overwhelmed
Even small actions can boost mood, reduce stress, and help build healthy routines.
Action for Others
Supporting someone else can be as simple as:
- Checking in on a friend
- Starting a conversation
- Saying hello to a neighbour
- Listening without judgement
Kindness and connection can have a powerful impact on someone’s mental health.
Building Healthy Habits
There are two types of actions that can support mental wellbeing:
Short-term actions – quick ways to feel calmer in the moment:
- Deep breathing
- Stretching
- Listening to music
- Grounding exercises
Long-term habits – routines that improve wellbeing over time:
- Regular exercise
- Healthy eating
- Good sleep routines
- Daily mindfulness
Small Steps Matter
Improving mental health does not happen overnight. Consistent small actions can help us feel more emotionally balanced, confident, connected, and better able to manage stress.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s all take one positive step towards better mental health — for ourselves, for others, and for our communities.
How to get involved
Join us for Wear It Green Day on Thursday 14 May during Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May 2026) where we will be wearing green, getting in some extra steps and bringing in some treats for the office.
Whether it’s a work quiz, baking treats, or supporting initiatives like Wear it Green Day , small actions can help create a world where good mental health is possible for everyone.
If you can’t take part on this day, don’t worry, you can hold your Wear it Green Day at any time of the year.