Awareness Campaign for Mental Health 2025: You're Never on Your Own
Let's talk about Mental Health Awareness Week, shall we? This event takes place annually in various countries at different times. For instance, in the UK, it's from 12th to 18th May, while in the US, it's recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in May. In Canada, it was in early May (5th-11th), and in Australia, it occurs in October. But take note, it's not about the dates; it's about shining a spotlight on mental health, something truly worth celebrating.
For far too long, people have suffered in silence due to shame and fear of judgment. Thanks to changes in society, that's beginning to change. A recent AXA Health survey of thousands of people worldwide revealed some sobering facts. Almost one-third deal with a mental health condition, while only 25% were classified as 'flourishing.' That leaves 75% who are just getting by, languishing, or struggling. The picture is even grimmer among younger adults, specifically those aged 18-24, as more than half—57%—tend to languish or struggle. That's a damn sight too many, if you ask me.
My Mental Health Tale
Before I became an author and speaker, I worked in pharmaceutical R&D. Back then, I was 27, and on many nights, I'd cry after work, sometimes for a little while, others until I fell asleep. The only respite was watching nature documentaries, especially deep-sea programs narrated by the legendary *Sir David Attenborough*. The soothing effect of nature turns out to be science-backed—it calms the nervous system, with hospital patients recovering faster when their rooms have views of trees or greenery[1].
Back then, I withdrew from friends. Socializing made me anxious, so I started making excuses to stay home. I even brushed off my mum's concerns, despite her battling depression herself. Eventually, I couldn't take it anymore, and I broke down on the phone, telling her everything. That was the beginning of my mental health recovery journey. It took time, but opening up was the turning point.
You Ain't Alone, Mate
If you're struggling right now, talk to someone you trust—be it a friend, family member, colleague, or even a neighbor. Call a helpline or speak to someone. Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved, and sometimes, you'll find that the person you're speaking to has been through something similar. Voice your feelings, write them down—it can bring clarity and relief. And above all, know that you're not alone[2][3].
Even though friends and family can provide valuable support, professional help can make a massive difference too. You're worthy of that support.
Connect, Dammit!
This year's theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is community. Struggling emotionally can make you feel isolated, but when you reach out, the world becomes less lonely. You begin to feel reconnected. If someone turns to you, remind them they've found a safe space. Be a shoulder, an ear, anything they need. It makes a world of difference.
Staying silent can make mental health issues seem unbearable, but they don't have to be. Speak up, reach out, connect. Shine a light on mental health. We're in this together[4].
Tags
community, connection, health, mental health, mental health awareness, mental health awareness month, mental health awareness week, mental health awareness week 2025, mind health, reach out
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4443686/[2] https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm[3] https://www. whoint.org/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health[4] http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-awareness-week/index.shtml
- In light of the grim statistics revealed in a recent AXA Health survey, there's an urgent need to focus on the intersection of mental health, science, and health-and-wellness.
- During Mental Health Awareness Week, let's emphasize the importance of community and connections, recognizing that healing from mental health issues often begins when individuals feel less isolated and more reconnected.
