Mental Health Awareness Week is scheduled from 12 to 18 May 2025. This annual event serves as a pivotal platform to highlight the significance of mental well-being and to advocate for the support of individuals affected by mental health issues.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is essential at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood. Prioritizing mental health is as vital as maintaining physical health, and seeking assistance when needed is a proactive step towards overall well-being.

Common Mental Health Conditions Include:

Anxiety disorders
Depression
Bipolar disorder
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

It is estimated that 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. Promoting awareness and access to support is essential to helping people live healthy, fulfilling lives.

A Time to Reach Out

One of the most meaningful things we can do this week is to simply check in — with a friend, a family member, a colleague, or even a neighbor. A quick message, a phone call, or an honest conversation can make a world of difference to someone who may be struggling in silence.

Let’s use this week as a gentle reminder that:

It’s okay to not be okay.
You’re not alone, even when it feels like it.
Help is available, and reaching out is a strength, not a weakness.

Supporting Your Mental Health with Kooth and Qwell

Over the coming weeks, some patients will receive an SMS message signposting them to Kooth (for young people aged 10–25) and Qwell (for adults aged 26+). These are free, safe, and confidential online mental health services, available without any need for a referral.

These platforms offer:

Professional counselling via live chat or scheduled sessions
Peer support through moderated forums
A range of self-help articles and wellbeing tools
Anonymity and easy access from your phone, tablet, or computer

The messages will be securely sent by iPLATO on behalf of the NHS. There is no cost to you and access to Kooth and Qwell is completely free.

If you receive a message, it’s simply to raise awareness of the support that’s available to you anytime, anywhere.