Posted on 28th September 2026
Supporting World Mental Health Day 2026 - This World Mental Health Day, let’s talk, listen, and support better mental health together.
World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10th October. It reminds us to take care of our minds and make happiness a priority.
The 2026 theme is: "Lived experiences heard: Real voices, real change." (World Federation for Mental Health).
(This means sharing our stories to make things better!)
World Mental Health Day is a great opportunity for us to come together to talk about our feelings and show everyone that they matter.
Conversations about mental health make a difference. And they matter most when we listen to people’s experiences.
Talking about mental health can feel hard. Many of us worry about saying the wrong thing, and that can stop conversations before they begin. But these conversations matter.
Starting a conversation isn’t always easy. Whether you’d like to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, or check-in with someone you care about, You can download free tips below developed by The Mental Health Foundation on how to talk, and listen about mental health.
Support is always available:
- The Healthy Heads Team - Sunderland's Mental Health Support Team (MHST) - Working with schools to support children and young people. Speak to your school to access support.
- Soluna by Kooth (www.solunaapp.com) Free, safe, and anonymous online support for young people aged 11+.
- Young Minds (www.youngminds.org.uk) Offers advice and resources for young people and parents.
- Shout (Text “SHOUT” to 85258) A free, confidential 24/7 text support service for anyone struggling to cope.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can now call NHS 111 for urgent mental health support
In Sunderland Children & Young People's Mental Health Service we are supporting Young Minds by wearing yellow on Friday 9th:
'Wear yellow and say hello as we celebrate 10 years of standing out, starting conversations and raising funds – so no young person feels alone with their mental health. There are days when all of us struggle with how we are feeling. Things can get tough, and it can be difficult knowing how to cope. For so many young people, when this happens, they don’t always get the help they need, when they need it. They don’t know where to turn, who to talk to, or even if anyone else feels the same. But we can change this. By taking part in Hello Yellow you’re starting a conversation about mental health wherever you are
Stand out, wear yellow on 9th October. Together we can support young people’s mental health, when they need it – no matter what'.
