Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 takes place running from 11–17 May. This year’s focus is on taking action to improve, support and promote positive mental health.

It highlights the importance of good mental health, challenges stigma and promotes practical actions people can take to support their own wellbeing. 

 Across our services we ensure we not only support the service users and communities we serve but also looking out for one another as colleagues.

Our own Mental Health 
Our mental health can be shaped by the environments and circumstances in which we live. While there are some things we have little control over, we still have the power to take action to boost our wellbeing. Even small actions can have a big impact. Good mental health doesn’t come from gimmicks or unproven wellness trends, but through everyday acts of care. That includes both self-care and caring for others.  
Other peoples Mental Health

Taking action to support the mental health of someone else might be as simple as saying hello to your neighbours, starting a conversation with a work colleague, or checking in on a friend. If you are worried about someone else, it can be nerve wracking to approach them with your concerns, and too often we worry about saying the wrong thing. Simply showing up with kindness and listening without judgement is what matters the most.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 resources include advice about how to start meaningful conversations and information about where to get further help. Most important to remember is that moment of connection can make someone’s day or even change their life.  

This year’s theme is an invitation for all of us to take that next step. Your action can be something you do for yourself, for someone else, or for all of us.

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. 
• Kooth (www.kooth.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.

Healthy Heads supporting #Mentalhealthawarenessweek2026