World Mental Health Day 2025

Published 6 October 2025

World Mental Health Day takes place on 10 October each year, providing an important opportunity to reflect on mental health, raise awareness, and encourage action.

This year’s global theme, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is: “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies.”

The theme highlights the urgent need for people to be able to look after their mental health and access support during times of crisis – whether that’s a natural disaster, conflict, or other emergency. Mental health is an essential part of health, even in the most difficult circumstances.

This matters, because:

• Access matters – everyone deserves support for their mental health.
• Crises affect all – both people impacted and those providing care.
• Response is key – mental health support should be part of every emergency plan.
• Recovery builds resilience – investing in services strengthens people and communities.

Our commitment to wellbeing

Daryhl Lewis, Wellbeing Services Manager:

On World Mental Health Day, we reflect on our commitment to supporting individual wellbeing. Across our wellbeing services, we recognise that mental health is deeply personal and unique to each individual. Our approach is about creating structured, personalised support pathways that reflect the many ways people experience and manage their wellbeing. We work alongside the people we support to understand their needs, strengths and goals, making sure the support we offer feels relevant and accessible. Most importantly, we believe in empowering people to take an active role in their wellbeing journey, while providing the guidance and resources they need along the way.

Talking about your feelings

Opening up supports your mental health and can make a real difference during tough times. It isn’t always easy, but sharing with a trusted friend, colleague, or loved one can help. Choose a safe time and place to talk, and remember—those who speak openly encourage others to do the same.

• Samaritans: Call 24/7 on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org.
• Mind support line: Call 0300 102 1234, 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays).
• SANEline: Call 0300 304 7000, 4.30-10pm every day.
• National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK: Call 0800 689 5652, 6pm-midnight every day, if you have suicidal thoughts.
• Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): Call 0800 58 58 58, 5pm-midnight everyday if you are affected by suicidal thoughts.
• Shout: If you would prefer not to talk but want some mental health support, you could text SHOUT to 85258. Shout offers a confidential 24/7 text service providing support if you are in crisis and need immediate help.
• Papyrus HOPELINEUK: For those under 35 struggling with suicidal feelings or concerned about a young person who might be struggling. Call 0800 068 4141 24/7, email pat@papyrus-uk.org or text 07786 209 697.
• Switchboard: If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, call 0300 330 0630, 10am–10pm every day, email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+.

Find out more on accessing mental health support on the Mind website.

Understanding mental health

Thanks to research kindly provided by one of our volunteers, here are some useful insights:

What is mental health?
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological and social wellbeing, influencing how we think, feel, and behave. It plays a crucial role in daily life, especially in how we manage stress and connect with others.

What is the difference between mental health and mental illness?
Mental illness refers to diagnosable conditions that can affect a person’s ability to function over time. Mental health is overall wellbeing, which can fluctuate throughout life.

What is the most common mental health diagnosis in the UK?
The Mental Health Foundation highlights that there is no single most common diagnosis, but rather a combination of anxiety and depression. Around 7.8% of people meet the criteria for diagnosis, and between 4–10% of people in England will experience depression in their lifetime.

How many people in the UK experience mental illness?
The Mental Health Foundation reports that 1 in 6 people experience a common mental health disorder. Mind (2025) states that 1 in 4 people will experience some kind of mental health problem each year in England.

What can we do to look after our mental health?

• Take regular exercise – even 30 minutes of walking a day can boost mood.
• Eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and look after gut health.
• Build a healthy sleep routine.
• Try relaxation techniques such as meditation or journaling.
• Set realistic goals and make time for self-care.
• Focus on positivity and take small steps to support your wellbeing.

World Mental Health Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting mental wellbeing, for ourselves and for others. By talking openly, seeking help when needed, and encouraging each other, we can break down stigma and build a more supportive community.

A special thank-you to our volunteer who helped research some of the information included in this article.

References:

The most common diagnosed mental health problems: Statistics. Mental Health Foundation

Key facts and statistics about mental health | mind (2025)