Every year Mental Health Awareness Week, run by the Mental Health Foundation, seeks to raise the awareness of mental health and the importance of being healthy in both mind and body. This year Mental Health Awareness Week is being held from 8-14 May. Its theme – Surviving or Thriving? – aims to not only raise the awareness of mental ill health, but also, particularly this year, to highlight the importance of promoting good mental health.
Most people are aware of the need to look after their physical well-being, and how a healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise can help, but many of us are perhaps less aware of how important looking after our mental health is. Particularly with the stresses and strains of modern life, life can become at times a bit much even for the best of us and a sense of surviving can override the feeling of really thriving and enjoying life.
When these feelings come, sometimes the best remedy can simply be to share our feelings and experiences with those closest to us. It’s important though to take time out from the everyday to enjoy those things in life which really matter to us such as spending time with loved ones, enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, or taking part in simple pleasures such as reading a good book, enjoying a meal or taking a walk. Good mental health, as well as good physical health, is fundamental to enjoying life to the full. If we feel mentally fit, then the challenges of life are much easier to handle – and more pleasurable.
To find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme of Surviving or Thriving, visit the Mental Health Foundation’s website.
Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event in the UK, organized by the Mental Health Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness of mental health issues and promoting mental well-being.
In 2025, Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from 8–14 May.
The theme is “Surviving or Thriving?”, which explores the difference between just getting through life and actively enjoying and engaging with it in a mentally healthy way.
You can support your mental health by taking time for self-care, connecting with loved ones, enjoying the outdoors, exercising, or simply engaging in activities you enjoy. Sharing your feelings and being kind to yourself are also key steps.
You can visit the Mental Health Foundation’s website to access resources, learn more about the theme, and find ways to participate in Mental Health Awareness Week.
