Mental Health Awareness Week is happening from 15th to 21st May.
Run every year by the Mental Health Foundation, the week highlights the importance of talking about mental health. It aims to reduce stigma and provide people with opportunities to get help.
Here’s everything you need to know:
Why do we need Mental Health Awareness Week?
Dr David Crepaz‑Keay, Head of Applied Learning at the Mental Health Foundation, said the week is a good way to get conversations started.
“One of the things we’ve noticed is that people are really starting to understand it’s important to talk about mental health but they don’t always know how,” he said. “We want to encourage people and give them an excuse to talk about it.”
This year’s theme is anxiety, with a focus on the impact of the cost of living crisis.
Why is this year’s theme anxiety?
Up to one in 20 people in the UK have a generalised anxiety disorder, and the past few years have provided the general public with more than enough to be anxious about. A global pandemic, climate change, international conflict and a cost of living crisis, on top of the stresses of everyday life, have made anxiety a familiar feeling for many.
A recent survey commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation found that 29% of UK adults experienced anxiety because of financial worries during the previous month.
It also found that 71% of UK adults were concerned about not being able to maintain their standard of living, and 50% were worried about being able to afford food over the next few months.
Dr Crepaz‑Keay said anxiety in itself is not necessarily a bad thing.
“During the pandemic, it was anxiety motivating people to wash their hands and wear masks. Anxiety is part of human nature, and alerts us to potential threats, so you shouldn’t feel anxious about getting anxious. But if it gets out of hand it can be disabling and even life-limiting.”
What can you do if you’re struggling?
For many people, the first step is to talk to someone they trust. Many people with mental health conditions can feel isolated, or like no-one understands, so it can be a relief to be open with someone.
“Saying anything is better than saying nothing”
Dr David Crepaz‑Keay
Dr Crepaz-Keay said: “Sometimes people are embarrassed or ashamed but when they do talk about it, it doesn’t matter to who, whether it’s friends, family or professionals, almost everybody finds talking about it to be helpful.
“The most important things you can do for yourself are look after your sleep, be cautious about what you’re eating and drinking, and exercise more, not necessarily going to the gym – just moving, going for walks.”
What can you do if you’re worried for a loved one?
If you believe a loved one is struggling with anxiety, or any mental health problem, the best thing to do is start a conversation, and let them know you’re there for them.
Dr Crepaz-Keay said: “Act on the worry. Saying anything is better than saying nothing, and you’re never going to do harm by asking.”
He also highlighted the importance of making time for this kind of conversation, and suggested going for a walk together, or muting your phone.
“Although language surrounding mental health can be difficult to navigate, it’s more important that people are talking about it. If we can help people find the right language it’s a really good start, but the most important thing is to get people talking about mental health.”
You can find more tips on coping with anxious feelings on the Mental Health Foundation website.