What action will you take this Mental Health Awareness Week?

Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May 2026) encourages each of us to take one meaningful step towards better mental health.

This year’s theme is Action. Even small actions can help us feel more hopeful in ourselves. And when we act together, our collective impact grows.

Below are simple, practical steps you can take for yourself, for someone else, and for your community.

Take action for yourself

This week is an opportunity to reflect on how you’re doing in yourself and choose one thing you can do to support your own mental health. Remember to pick something that works for you and your life at the moment – even small steps can give you a real sense of achievement.

For inspiration, consider exploring the Five Ways to Wellbeing.

1. Connect
   Connecting with the people around us can help us feel valued, feel happier, and live longer.
   • Reach out to one person today with a simple message or say hello to a neighbour.
   • Join a local group or activity – explore our Find Support page for ideas.
   • Arrange a regular get-together, such as a tea break at work or coffee with a friend.
2. Be active
   Staying active is linked to feeling well physically and mentally. There are many ways to be active so choose something that suits you and makes you feel good.
   • Take a regular movement break – go for a walk during your lunch or tea break, or try some standing or sitting stretches through the day.
   • Try walking or cycling to get around – explore our Active Travel page for ideas.
   • Do something that makes you smile, whether it’s dancing in the kitchen, playing with a pet, or walking through wildflowers.
3. Take notice
   Noticing our thoughts, how we feel, and what’s around us can help us stay in the moment and pay attention to what we need.
   • Try a mindful hobby like knitting, journalling, or gardening.
   • Write down three things in your life you are grateful for.
   • Try the 5 Senses Scan activity.
4. Keep learning
   Learning can help us meet new people and boost our self-confidence, which is good for our mental health.
   • Read or listen to something inspiring, like a new podcast on a topic you’re interested in.
   • Try a new hobby or activity, such as a new language or instrument.
   • Learn through everyday tasks – try a new recipe or explore a new walking route.
5. Give
   Doing good things is linked to increased wellbeing.
   • Express gratitude – take a moment to thank someone, publicly or privately, for something you appreciate.
   • Give back in your community, through volunteering or donating something you can spare.
   • Share your skills with someone who would like to learn a new recipe, how to use a device, or how something works.

Take action for someone else

Our relationships and the people around us influence our wellbeing. The right support at the right time can offer a lifeline for someone going through a difficult time. Even a small step like checking in with someone you’ve been thinking about could make a big difference for them.

• Reach out
  Start a supportive conversation with a simple question like “How are you doing today?” and giving your full attention to the answer can open the door to a meaningful conversation.
  For more ideas, see our How To Talk About Mental Health guide.
• Be prepared
  It can be difficult to know how best to be there for someone going through mental health difficulties. However, you are not alone.
  Explore our Supporting Someone Else guide for practical tips.
• Don’t be afraid to ask
  If you’re worried someone may be thinking about suicide, asking directly could save their life. It may feel difficult, but it is safer to ask than to stay silent.
  For a step-by-step guide, read our I’m Worried About Someone guide.
• Look after yourself
  Supporting someone else through a difficult time can be rewarding, but it can also take a toll on your wellbeing. Looking after yourself can protect your mental health, and also role model for others how important self-care is.

Take action in your community

Being part of a community can support our mental health and help others feel less alone.

Small actions can help create spaces where people feel welcome, supported, and able to be themselves.

• Create opportunities to connect
  Simple moments of connection can make a big difference.
  • Bring people together informally, like a shared lunch or group walk.
  • Start something small and regular, such as a weekly check-in or meet-up.
  • Encourage inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome to join.
• Get involved
  Supporting your community can strengthen both your wellbeing and that of others.
  • Take part in local activities or events. See what’s on.
  • Offer your time or skills through volunteering. Find volunteering opportunities with Midlothian Community Action (MCA).
  • Support local groups and organisations making a difference. Explore local support.
• Help shape a supportive environment
  We can all play a role in how safe and supported people feel.
  • Encourage a culture of kindness and respect in your workplace, school, or community.
  • Notice who might be left out and help include them.
  • Make time and space for people to share and be heard. Explore conversation tips for checking in with someone.
• Use your voice
  Open conversations can influence how communities think and feel about mental health.
  • Help normalise talking about mental health in your everyday spaces.
  • Share messages that promote understanding and reduce stigma. Explore our guides and resources.