Taking Action – How You Can Make a Difference (Mental Health Awareness Week: 12th – 18th May 2025)

Introduction

Mental Health Awareness Week (12th – 18th May 2025) is an opportunity to move beyond awareness and take meaningful action. This year’s theme is “Community,” and at MHM Wales, we believe that everyone can play a role in supporting mental health. Whether you’re an individual, a volunteer, or part of an organisation, there are many ways you can make a difference.

Why Taking Action Matters

Mental health is not just an individual issue – it is a community responsibility. When we take action to support mental health, we create a stronger, more compassionate society.

The Impact of Taking Action:

• Reduces Stigma: Speaking openly about mental health helps break down stereotypes and encourages understanding.

  
  

• Builds Support Networks: Community connections provide emotional and practical support for those who are struggling.

  
  

• Promotes Wellbeing: Access to mental health services and peer support can prevent crises and enhance quality of life.

  
  

How You Can Make a Difference

There are many ways you can take action to support mental health this Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond:

🌱 1. Become a Mental Health Peer Advocate

• Use your voice to raise awareness about mental health in your community.

• Share accurate information on social media to challenge stigma.

• Speak up for mental health funding, support services, and policies that protect mental wellbeing.

  
  

💬 2. Start Conversations About Mental Health

• Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues and ask how they are feeling.

• Create safe spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences.

• Listen without judgment and offer support when needed.

  
  

🤝 3. Volunteer Your Time

• Join MHM Wales as a volunteer and support our services, from peer support to dementia care.

• Offer your skills to local mental health organisations – whether it’s fundraising, creative workshops, or providing one-on-one support.

• Volunteer at our Wellbeing Hubs, Dementia Hubs, or SHARE Peer Support Groups to make a direct impact.

  
  

🎨 4. Use Creativity to Promote Wellbeing

• Host an art workshop, music session, or creative writing group to help others express themselves.

• Share your own creative work – poetry, art, music – to inspire and connect with others.

• Encourage creative activities as a way to reduce stress and support mental wellbeing.

  
  

🌐 5. Support Digital Wellbeing Initiatives

• Share online mental health resources to ensure people know where to find help.

• Participate in digital peer support groups like our SHARE Peer Support Group, available online.

• Advocate for digital inclusion, ensuring that everyone can access mental health support, even remotely.

  
  

🌿 6. Make Your Workplace Mental Health Friendly

• Promote mental health awareness among your team through workshops and open discussions.

• Create a supportive environment where employees can discuss mental health without fear of discrimination.

• Encourage regular breaks, flexible working, and access to support services.

  
  

🌟 7. Become an MHM Wales Ambassador

• Represent MHM Wales at events, share our message, and help us raise awareness.

• Use your voice and networks to promote mental health support and our services.

• Inspire others to take action by sharing your own mental health journey or why mental health matters to you.

  
  

💼 8. Become a Corporate Partner

• Collaborate with MHM Wales to support mental health initiatives in your community.

• Sponsor mental health events, fundraise with your team, or offer in-kind support.

• Show your commitment to mental wellbeing by promoting workplace mental health practices.

  
  

How MHM Wales is Making a Difference

At MHM Wales, we are dedicated to supporting mental health through a wide range of services. Our work is focused on creating communities that care, where everyone feels supported and empowered.

🌱 Wellbeing Hubs

• Safe spaces for peer support, creative activities, and mental wellbeing.

  
  

🎵 SHARE Peer Support Groups

• Support for individuals struggling with self-harm, available both face-to-face and online

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🌸 Dementia Hubs

• Support, advice, and memory-enhancing activities for individuals living with dementia and their carers.

  
  

💬 Talking Connections – Counselling

• Professional one-on-one counselling available face-to-face in Bridgend and online across Wales.

  
  

Real Stories – How Taking Action Changes Lives

At MHM Wales, we have seen firsthand the impact of community support on mental wellbeing:

“Volunteering with the Wellbeing Hubs gave me a sense of purpose and helped me manage my own anxiety.” – Volunteer.

“Being part of the SHARE Peer Support Group helped me open up about my struggles. I finally felt understood.” Member of the peer support group

“The Dementia Hub is a lifeline for me and my mum. The support group has made such a difference.” Carer

Get Involved – Make a Difference Today

This Mental Health Awareness Week, we invite you to take action. Whether it’s sharing mental health information, volunteering, starting conversations, or simply showing kindness, every action counts.

Ways to Get Involved:

• 💚 Share this blog to raise awareness.

• 🤝 Volunteer your time to support mental health initiatives.

• 🌟 Become an MHM Wales Ambassador.

• 💼 Become a Corporate Partner and support our work.

• 🌐 Become a digital advocate – share mental health resources online.

  
  

Contact Details:

• 🌐 Website: www.mhmwales.org.uk

• 📧 Email: info@mhmwales.org.uk

• 📞 Phone: 01656 651450

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