Mental Health Awareness Week 2025
Mental Health Awareness Week this year takes place from Monday 12 – Sunday 18 May 2025.
As a mental health charity, this week is an opportunity to shine a light on the importance of everyone’s mental health.
On this page:
The power in community
Imagine a world where everyone feels supported with their mental health at home, school, and work. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re working to make that vision a reality by showcasing the power of community in helping us all take care of our mental health.
In a time when the high cost of living is impacting families across the UK, stress and burnout are affecting many, and millions of young people are seeking mental health support, connection is more important than ever. There has never been more awareness of mental health, yet there is more work to do. We believe that everyone has a part to play in creating a supportive network that promotes good mental health.
We’ve seen the impact of community firsthand—our young people’s programmes helped over 100,000 young people last year, 98% of clients showed improved well-being through our Into Work programme, and our Mental Health & Money Advice service helped people gain over £7 million in total financial advice. These stories are just the beginning. In 2025, we’re committed to showing that together, we can all support each other’s mental health.
So, this Mental Health Awareness Week, will you join us?
Share your story, download conversation guides for your workplace, take on a fundraiser, follow us on social media, or sign up to our newsletter.
There is power in community—this is your sign to be part of it!
The good things I do help me cope with the bad things affecting me.
I am especially nourished by volunteering. Giving back is giving to yourself; it costs my time,... but it contributes to something that makes me feel connected to people and a part of my local community.
Share your story
Tell us about a time when someone made a difference to your mental health at home, at school, or at work.
It could be anything – from a colleague who made you a cup of tea when you were struggling, to a friend who helped you through a panic attack, or even a compassionate hairdresser who listened when you opened up.
Big or small, your story matters. Your experiences show us how transformative community support can be, and we want to celebrate those moments.
Power in community downloads
Download these Mental Health Awareness Week posters, esignature and social card to spread the message - there is power in community!
A4 poster
A4 poster
eSignature
Social card
Conversation guides
Starting a conversation about mental health can make a real difference.
These guides will help you navigate important conversations about mental health with confidence, compassion, and care.
This Mental Health Awareness Week - start those conversations.
Talking to someone about mental health
Talking to a friend about their mental health
Talking to a young person about mental health
Move it for mental health
31 Miles in May
Let’s move together and fundraise at this important time in the mental health calendar.
You can walk, run, cycle, skip or wheel – freestyle it!
Registration is free
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is community the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week?
The theme is set by the Mental Health Foundation every year, and for 2025 it’s ‘community’. Community is an ideal theme for Mental Health Awareness Week.
Social connections and community are vital for mental health and wellbeing. Through meaningful relationships and community participation, we gain support systems that help us navigate life’s challenges. Communities provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging that reduces isolation.
Strong community networks offer practical and emotional assistance during difficult times, helping people build resilience and find purpose through shared experiences and mutual support.
What is Mental Health Awareness Week?
Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event in the UK dedicated to raising awareness of mental health and promoting mental wellbeing for all. Organised by the Mental Health Foundation, the week provides an opportunity to reflect on mental health, spark conversations, and support those experiencing mental health challenges. Each year, a specific theme is chosen to focus attention on aspects of mental health.
When is Mental Health Awareness Week?
Mental Health Awareness Week typically takes place in May each year. The exact dates vary, so it’s worth bookmarking this webpage for up-to-date information about the current year’s event.
What is the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week?
Each year, Mental Health Awareness Week highlights a new theme to guide discussions and initiatives. Previous themes have included loneliness, kindness, and body image.
Why is this week important?
Mental health is important to everyone – it’s estimated that around 1 in 4 people in England will experience a mental health issue at some point in their life. Mental Health Awareness Week is vital because it shines a spotlight on mental health, encouraging open conversations, reducing stigma, and promoting wellbeing. It’s an opportunity for individuals, communities, and organisations to come together, share stories, and advocate for better mental health support.
How can I get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week?
You can get involved in many ways! Share our mental health resources or lived experience stories on social media using the event’s hashtag, attend events or workshops, or organise activities to promote mental wellbeing in your community. We often create free resources and toolkits to help spread the word, and you can use this time to share your own experiences with mental health as a way to foster more open conversations. If you’re able, you can also donate to support our mission to provide people with the tools they need to live their best possible life at home, school and work.
What resources are available for Mental Health Awareness Week?
Every year, we create and provide free resources like posters, fact sheets, and social media graphics to help raise awareness. Be sure to bookmark our webpage, where we’ll share the latest resources.
