Mental Health Awareness Week started 21 years ago and has grown to become one of the biggest awareness weeks across the UK. The aim of the week is to reduce the stigma that exists around many illnesses associated with mental health and provides an opportunity to access a range of services and support in order to achieve good mental health.

The theme for this year is a topic is loneliness. Loneliness affects many of us at one time or another. We know that loneliness can be both the driver for and a product of poor mental health.

This week, Mental Health UK and other supporting organisations are raising awareness of the impact of loneliness on our mental well being. Mental Health UK are encouraging people to connect during Mental Health Awareness Week, and together, we can:

• Raise awareness of the links between poor mental health and loneliness
• Provide safe and welcoming spaces to talk and support each other
• Upskill people to use technology and keep in touch with loved ones
• Create an army of volunteers to support lonely people

Further information on Mental Health Awareness Week and a range of advice for parents and guardians, coronavirus support and local support can be found here.