Action for every mind: what will you do this Mental Health Awareness Week?

We've made great progress in terms of awareness about mental health, but there's so much more that needs to change and improve for people experiencing mental health difficulties. People continue to wait too long for support, stigma is alive and well and stops people coming forward for help, plus there's plenty we can do to prevent people becoming unwell in the first place.

We can all play a small part in improving the mental health landscape - for example, by looking after ourselves, checking in with others and educating ourselves about mental health. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Take action for you

Whether it's making sure you get enough sleep, eating well or connecting with other people, there are many small everyday things you can do to protect your mental wellbeing.

You could try new things, such as meditation, exercise or learning about mindfulness, or you could make time for hobbies and activities you know you enjoy. Sometimes it's a case of stopping, taking time for you and making sure you get enough rest to prevent stress and overwhelm. Try these top ten actions for good mental health from the Mental Health Foundation.

Or why not get involved with our mindfulness fundraising challenge? Choose an activity to do over 24, 36 or 48 hours in the comfort of your own home, nurture your wellbeing and fundraise for us at the same time!

Action for someone else

Check in regularly with people around you. It doesn't have to be awkward. Just asking people genuinely how they are doing and actively listening without trying to fix things for them makes a huge difference and shows you care.

Build your confidence in having everyday conversations about mental health and wellbeing. You could try Mind's free online course, called Conversations in the Community.

Action for your community

Whether it's checking in on neighbours, welcoming people who are new to your area, educating yourself about mental health conditions, or sharing knowledge about support organisations, including West Sussex Mind, there are lots of ways you can foster better wellbeing in your community.

You could also consider donating to West Sussex Mind to help us support more adults and young people. Our frontline services rely on fundraising and donations to continue running - and at a time when demand for our support is rising and we are facing cuts to some of our contracts.

Please consider donating this Mental Health Awareness Week and know that every penny goes towards helping someone locally who is struggling right now. Thank you.