Mental Health Awareness Week

Date published: 7th May 2021

The Mental Health Awareness Week is taking place from 10 to 16 May 2021, with Nature as a theme.

During the Mental Health Awareness Week, the Mental Health Foundation will be releasing evidence that demonstrates the powerful benefits of nature for our mental health. They will look at nature’s unique ability to not only bring consolation in times of stress, but also increase our creativity, empathy and sense of wonder. It turns out that it is not just being in nature but how we open ourselves up and interact with nature that counts. They will show that even small contacts with nature can reduce feelings of social isolation and be effective in protecting our mental health, and preventing distress.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, they are asking you to do three things:

  • Experience nature: take time to recognise and grow your connection with nature during the week. Take a moment to notice and celebrate nature in your daily life. You might be surprised by what you notice!
  • Share nature: Take a photo, video or sound recording and share the connections you’ve made during the week, to inspire others. Join the discussion on how you’re connecting with nature by using the hashtags #ConnectWithNature #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
  • Talk about nature: use our tips, school packs, research and policy guides to discuss in your family, school, workplace and community how you can help encourage people to find new ways to connect with nature in your local environment.

Visit their website for more information and top tips for Connecting with Nature: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week