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This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week, a national campaign led by the Mental Health Foundation. This year’s theme is Take action – a reminder that small, meaningful steps can make a real difference to our mental wellbeing.

Even the smallest action can help us feel more hopeful and less overwhelmed.

At North London NHS Foundation Trust, we know how important mental health is for individuals, families and communities. While individual actions matter, taking action together can be even more powerful. Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to pause, reconnect and reflect on how we look after ourselves and support one another.

Small actions you can take
You don’t need to make big or dramatic changes to support your mental health. Simple, everyday actions can help, such as:

• Taking a moment to check in with yourself and notice how you’re feeling
• Reaching out to someone you trust for a chat or message
• Stepping outside for some fresh air or taking a short break
• Setting one small, achievable wellbeing goal
• Being kind to yourself and recognising effort as well as outcomes
  
  

Support for mental health
If you need extra support, help is available. The NHS offers a wide range of mental health services, advice and self‑help resources, including guidance on managing stress, anxiety and low mood, access to talking therapies, and urgent support when it’s needed. National mental health guidance, wellbeing advice, apps and support services are also available on the NHS website.

You may also find Simplyhealth’s mental and physical wellbeing toolkit helpful. It includes practical tips and information to support your wellbeing.

If you or someone you care for is struggling, reaching out for support is an important first step.

Taking action together
Mental Health Awareness Week is a reminder that mental health is everyone’s business. By taking small actions - individually and together - we can help create healthier, more supportive communities.

Remember: Anyone in crisis, including children, or concerned family members can now call 111, choose the mental health option (option 2), and talk to a trained mental health professional. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

This week, and every week, let’s take action for better mental health.