Published on: 11th May 2026

Mental Health Awareness Week (11-17 May) is a chance for all of us to pause and reflect on how we’re really doing.

This year the theme is take action – for ourselves and for others.

The article has some practical advice, support services, and real-life examples and inspiration of how to take action for your mental health. Small, everyday actions can make a big difference.

Reaching out for support - talking therapy

If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, low mood, stress and sleep, NHS Talking Therapies services are here to help.

They provide space to talk openly, understand your thoughts and feelings, and develop practical ways to cope and recover.

Reaching out and referring yourself is the first step.

Michael, 63, recently found the support to be-life changing, referring after long‑standing childhood trauma had started to take a toll on his mental health. He has shared his story to encourage others that it’s never late to get help.

Drop in for support

Crisis cafés offer free, face‑to‑face support if you’re feeling overwhelmed or distressed. You don’t need an appointment or referral, you can drop-in during opening hours to talk to someone.

They are run by local organisations across all our boroughs in Greater Manchester. Find your nearest crisis café and view opening times.

Make a call

If you need urgent support, NHS 111 Mental Health is available 24/7. By calling 111 and selecting the mental health option, you can speak to a trained professional who will listen, offer advice and help you get the right support for your situation.

There are also a range of mental health helplines available, offering a safe, confidential space to talk to someone who can help. Visit our helplines page.

Be active

Regular exercise can boost your mood, reduce stress and improve sleep, helping you feel more energised and resilient.

Give something back

Volunteering, supporting others or fundraising can increase your sense of purpose, build connections, and leave you feeling more positive and fulfilled.

It’s great that over 40 people are putting this into practice by taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge this Sunday for Pennine Care Charity, staying active while also giving something back.

Keeping learning

Learning new things or building existing skills keeps your mind active, lifts your mood, builds confidence and reduces stress.

You can also help to support others and be a better advocate by learning more about different mental health conditions.

Get involved in research

Shape the future of mental health care by getting involved in research. Your support and lived experience can make positive changes.

Visit our research page to see what studies are currently underway. You might also want to take a look at these:

  • Be Part of Research – Find research studies near you and sign up to take part as a volunteer through the National Institute of Health Research.
  • Join Dementia Research – if dementia has affected your life, you can register to take part in research that could change the future for families across the UK.
  • My Voice Matters in Research – working with young people, families and professionals to bring more young voices into mental health research.