This year the theme is ‘Nature’, showing how connecting with the natural world can support good mental health!

Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it’s almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world.

According to a study conducted by the Mental Health Foundation, 73% of UK adults said that connecting to nature has been important in managing their mental health during the pandemic, and 49% said that being close to nature helps them cope with stress.

There are many ways in which you can participate in Mental Health Awareness Week, including:

• Experience nature: take time to recognise and grow your connection with nature during the week. Take a moment to notice and celebrate nature in your daily life. You might be surprised by what you notice!
• Share nature: Take a photo, video or sound recording and share the connections you’ve made during the week, to inspire others. Join the discussion on how you’re connecting with nature by using the hashtags #ConnectWithNature and #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek
• Talk about nature: use our tips, school packs, research and policy guides to discuss in your family, school, workplace and community how you can help encourage people to find new ways to connect with nature in your local environment.

For more tips go to mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week/tips

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw

And remember to be kind.