Mental Health Awareness Week: Small actions can make a big difference to our mental wellbeing
This Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May), people across Coventry and Warwickshire are being encouraged to think about the simple actions they can take every day to support their own mental health and wellbeing, as part of this year's national theme: Action.
This year, Mental Health Awareness Week is highlighting that while awareness is important, real and lasting change happens when we take action - for ourselves, for others, and across our communities. Even small, manageable steps can help improve how we feel and support positive mental wellbeing over time.
Across Coventry and Warwickshire, NHS organisations, local authorities, voluntary and community partners all play a role in supporting good mental health. But just as importantly, each of us are being encouraged to think about one thing we do - or could start doing - to look after our own wellbeing.
To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, colleagues from across health and care partners in Coventry and Warwickshire have come together to create a short compilation video, sharing one simple thing they do to boost their mental health and wellbeing. The video is designed to spark ideas and conversations, and to show that improving mental health does not necessarily have to mean big lifestyle changes - it can start with small, personal actions that feel right for you.
Research consistently shows that actions like staying connected, being physically active, learning new skills, giving to others and paying attention to the present moment can all have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. These types of actions are also recommended as practical ways to support mental health day to day.
Residents across Coventry and Warwickshire are encouraged to watch the video and to use it as inspiration to identify their own one thing - an action they can take to support their mental wellbeing, whether that's something they already do or something new they would like to try.
You can watch the video below.
Remember, if you need to access mental health support, then there are services to support you, including Wellbeing for Warwickshire and Wellbeing for Coventry.
For details of the range of local mental health and wellbeing services, including face to face, telephone, online and self-help resources available in Coventry and Warwickshire, please visit Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust,Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council.
If you or someone you know needs urgent mental health help, call 111 and select the 'mental health' option, available 24/7, or find out how else to get help now. There is also support available through Shout, partnered with the NHS, which provides 24/7 text support for people experiencing anxiety, stress, loneliness, or struggling to cope. Text CWHOPE to 85258 for a free, confidential conversation with a trained mental health professional.
Julie Frake-Harris, Chief Operating Officer at Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust, said:
Mental Health Awareness Week is a great reminder that looking after our mental wellbeing does not have to involve big changes; small, consistent actions can make just as much of a difference. We encourage everyone across Coventry and Warwickshire to think about one thing they can do to support their own mental health and to take that first step. We also know many people have friends, family or loved ones experiencing mental health difficulties, so we encourage people to check in with those around them and keep conversations going to help break down stigma.