Every year, Mental Health Awareness Week, run by the Mental Health Foundation, seeks to raise the awareness of good mental health and the importance of being healthy in both mind and body. This year Mental Health Awareness Week is being held from 16-22 May 2016 and is focusing on the importance of relationships in maintaining good mental health.
Our relationships can really influence our mental health – from our partners, close family and friends, to our work colleagues and the wider community. Good, strong relationships make us happier, and both physically and mentally healthier. In contrast, difficult and damaging relationships, even early in life, can cause depression, anxiety and loneliness.
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 building and looking after the relationships we have with those around us are to both our own mental well-being and to that of others. We tend therefore to invest less time and effort in them. This Mental Health Awareness Week, why not take a look at your relationships and consider if there is more you can do to make them better and stronger, and make you and those around you mentally healthier?
To find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme of Relationships, visit the Mental Health Foundation’s website.
Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual campaign led by the Mental Health Foundation to raise awareness of mental health issues and promote positive mental well-being. Each year, it focuses on a different theme related to mental health.
Positive relationships provide emotional support, increase self-esteem, reduce stress, and promote a sense of belonging. On the other hand, poor or toxic relationships can contribute to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
Invest time and attention in the people around you. Listen actively, express appreciation, resolve conflicts calmly, and make time for shared activities. Even small gestures of kindness can make a big difference.
You can find more information, resources, and tips on how to get involved on the Mental Health Foundation’s website.
You can reach out to friends, family, or colleagues to check in on how they’re feeling, start conversations about mental health, share resources, or even organize a small event to promote connection and well-being. Sometimes, simply being present and listening can make a meaningful difference.
