Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

This Mental Health Awareness Week, Mental Health Foundation is encouraging everyone to take action to support good mental health.

At PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity, we believe that action can save lives. Awareness is important, but real change happens when we turn awareness into
meaningful action.

Even small steps can help us feel more hopeful, connected, and supported. When we take action together, our impact is even greater.

Why Action Matters

We have made important progress in how we talk about mental health, but there is still more to do.

Taking action can:

  • Help prevent mental health difficulties before they become overwhelming
  • Reduce isolation and loneliness
  • Encourage people to seek support earlier
  • Build stronger and more connected communities

By taking action now, we can help create a future where fewer people reach crisis point.

TAKE ACTION FOR YOURSELF

Looking after your own mental health is an important first step.

You could:

  • Take time each day to rest and reset
  • Spend time outdoors and stay active
  • Talk openly about how you are feeling
  • Set boundaries and prioritise your wellbeing

TAKE ACTION FOR SOMEONE ELSE

Supporting others does not require special skills. It starts with compassion and being present.

You could:

  • Check in with someone you have not heard from in a while
  • Ask how they are really feeling and listen without judgement
  • Let them know they are not alone
  • Encourage them to seek support if they need it

TAKE ACTION FOR ALL OF US

When we act together, we can create lasting change.

You could:

  • Share mental health resources in your workplace, school, or community
  • Challenge stigma by speaking openly about mental health
  • Support local charities and services
  • Get involved in awareness or fundraising activities

TAKE ACTION FOR CHANGE

Taking action also means speaking up for better mental health support for everyone. PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity is calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to fully fund the Mental Health Strategy. Our petition already has almost 7,000 signatures, but we need your help to go further.

By signing the petition, you can:

  • Help push for proper investment in mental health services
  • Support early intervention and prevention
  • Stand up for people who need access to care and support
Sign the Petition

Download Our Social Media Assets

A collection of ready to use graphics to help you share the message of action.

You can use these to:

  • Raise awareness of mental health
  • Encourage others to take action
  • Start conversations online
  • Show your support for Mental Health Awareness Week

Download, share, and help spread the message that small actions can make a big difference.

Take Action Guide

A simple one or two page guide filled with practical actions that anyone can take to support mental health.

This guide includes:

  • Actions you can take for yourself
  • Ways to support someone else
  • Ideas to create positive change in your community

It is designed to be easy to read, easy to share, and easy to put into practice.

How to Use These Resources

  • Share the graphics across your social media channels
  • Print or circulate the action guide in your workplace, school, or community
  • Use them to start conversations and encourage others to take part
  • Tag PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity and join the wider campaign

Together, we can turn awareness into action.

If You Need Support

You are not alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support.

PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity offers:

  • Confidential support services
  • Crisis intervention
  • Community based programmes

If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.

Take Action for Yourself

Looking after your own mental health is an important first step.

You could:

  • Take time each day to rest and reset
  • Spend time outdoors and stay active
  • Talk openly about how you are feeling
  • Set boundaries and prioritise your wellbeing

Small and consistent actions can make a real difference over time.