Monday marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week 2025. This is my 7th year covering MHAW, and this year, we are talking all things community.

I really connect with this theme, having previously hosted Mental Monday and being part of a fantastic community of mental health advocates. I can’t wait to share it with everyone this week!

The Theme

Most of us belong to some kind of community. Whether it’s the personal communities we have with friends and family, the community where we live or work or spiritual communities, there are so many forms that the community can take

It goes without saying how valuable these communities are. From the support we can find from members in those communities to a sense of belonging, community and purpose which is fostered within them.

But, how does this relate to mental health? Most obviously, for me, it is loneliness. We spoke about this in 2022 and the benefits that being around (the right) people can have on our mental health.

Special moments become even more meaningful when we have others in our community to share them with. But community isn’t just about sharing special moments. It’s part of the everyday, too, moving through life with a group of people who are bonded by something shared.

I take great comfort in having a community around me to turn to when I’m feeling low. That is a source of personal strength, and one of the most helpful things on my recovery journey was finding communities where I fit in and am accepted.

The Mental Health Foundation points to 7 measurable benefits of community, from supporting those with lower mental health and in high-risk groups to having a sense of purpose and belonging. All of this time and actions with others are beneficial for ourselves, too.

But how do we find our communities? How do we create a sense of purpose and belonging? Well, let’s go back to basics. While we have been talking about community in the broad sense of the word, for me, it’s about spending time with friends and like-minded people.

Remember, your community could be just a few people who check in regularly. Communities do not have to be large to feel part of something and to receive the benefits of a shared understanding.

The most important thing when looking for a community is finding one that aligns with your values and that you actually enjoy being a part of. There are so many communities out there, and it’s okay to pass on joining those that do not bring joy to your life.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 offers us an opportunity to connect with those in our communities and offers an invitation for new members to join.

From making time for someone to checking in with a friend, we can do many small acts to support our communities. These simple gestures, whether offering a listening ear, helping a neighbour or showing kindness, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and help build a stronger, more connected society.

As always, I look forward to seeing the content created by the community this week and will post my usual roundup at the end of the week. Please send me a message if you would like to be included.