Since 2001, the Mental Health Foundation has been leading Mental Health Awareness Week - bringing the UK together to focus on getting good mental health. This year, the week takes place from 12 to 18 May 2025 and the theme is 'community'.

The focus of this year's Mental Health Awareness Week is to celebrate the power and importance of community. 

Being part of a safe, positive community is vital for our mental health and wellbeing. We thrive when we have strong connections with other people and supportive communities that remind us, we are not alone. Communities can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and give us a sense purpose. 

Why is community the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week?

The theme is set by the Mental Health Foundation ever 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 from year to year.

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 mental health resources or lived experience stories on social media using the event’s hashtag (#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek), attend events or workshops, or organise activities to promote mental wellbeing in your community. Various Mental Health charities and organisations 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. 

More information and support can be found on websites such as MIND, Mental Health UK and Mental Health Foundation.

Fore more details on Mental Health Awareness Week, click here.