Every year, Mental Health Awareness Week provides an opportunity to instigate conversations about mental health. The week makes space for us to foster more understanding, challenge stigma, and remind others that mental wellbeing is something we all share responsibility for.
This year’s theme is community, which will focus on the power and importance of a safe and positive community for our mental wellbeing.
Why community matters
Social connection and belonging plays a critical role in promoting and sustaining mental health – often making all the difference in how we cope with life’s challenges.
Research consistently shows that people with strong social networks experience lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as recovering more effectively from mental health challenges.
How can we grow and strengthen our communities?
Built from friendships, families, colleagues, and others with shared interests, the community we build for ourselves can come in all shapes and sizes.
‘Community connection is important for mental wellbeing as it supports us. It can help with sense of self, cultural identity and sense of belonging. Being known in your community can feel very safe and peaceful.’
Life can sometimes get busy, and the focus on building and nourishing our own communities can often get pushed to the side. Here are some small steps to help strength our sense of community:
Reach out
Whether it’s a friend you haven’t seen in a while, or someone who’s having a tough time, a quick call or message can make a big difference.
Share your time
Join a local cause or support a community event. Giving your time, big or small, to help others, can boost your own wellbeing.
Join a group
Whether it’s a sports club, a walking group, or a book club, shared activities can foster connection and purpose.
Celebrate diversity and inclusion
Strong communities are ones where everyone feels welcome. Being open to different perspectives and experiences can help you to create a more supportive community for yourself and those around you.
Get involved in local activities
Across Leeds and Calderdale, a wide range of groups and organisations are coming together to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, with events and activities to recognise this year’s theme of community.
Leeds mindful dog walk
Mental Health Mates have joined forces with Rover.com to bring a mindful dog walk to Roundhay Park on 17 May. The initiative for the event came following a study that showed that many pet owners turn to their dog for comfort during hard times.
The event will be free to attend and will offer a safe, welcoming space for anyone looking for companionship, fresh air, and a gentle reminder that they’re not alone.
Kirkgate marketplace event
Leeds Mind are teaming up with smaller mental health organisations to bring a marketplace event to Leeds Kirkgate Market on 16 May. Following the theme of community, the stalls will offer information and connect people with community organisations which offer mental health and wellbeing support.
The event will provide tailored support for people from culturally diverse communities and marginalised groups.
University of Leeds wellbeing events
The University of Leeds will be hosting a range of wellbeing activities at every university residence to help students through the summer assessment period and to honour Mental Health Awareness Month.
The activities will be hosted on 19 May and include a range of options, including outdoor pony therapy and guide dog visits.
Healthy Minds’ ForumFest!
ForumFest! will be hosted at Halifax Minster by Healthy Minds on 14 May. It will be a lived experience exhibition, where people can see, hear and feel the stories, artworks, and voices from local people who have or have had mental health issues/experiences.
The event will also provide refreshments and a public living room to chat.
Being You Leeds activity calendar
Being You Leeds, ran by a partnership of third-sector organisations, have planned a month full of crafts and activities suitable for all ages.
Activities range from knit and stitch sessions and tai chi, to introductions in art and women’s tea, talk and trips.
Our insights
One of our school and parent therapists, Yong Waters, discussed the importance of community for mental wellbeing:
"Community connection is important for mental wellbeing as it supports us. It can help with sense of self, cultural identity and sense of belonging. Being known in your community can feel very safe and peaceful.
"The role of community-based services is to foster a sense of pride in the local area, as well as helping people to feel included and like they belong. These can all increase wellbeing."
Do you have any thoughts on how community can contribute towards mental wellbeing? Let us know on Bluesky or see our tips on looking after your wellbeing this week.
