This World Mental Health Day, we’re calling on everyone to open up to mental health, to talk and to listen.

We all deserve to feel safe and supported when talking about our mental health. But too often, mental health stigma leaves people feeling isolated and ashamed. At worst, it prevents people getting support, finding employment or having open conversations.

Attitudes towards mental health have improved, but the stories of many are still not being heard or understood.

Everyone’s experience of mental health is different. That’s why our Champions are sharing their stories this World Mental Health Day, to help change the way people think and act about mental health problems.

Personal stories about World Mental Health Day

"I have particularly seen in South Asian communities that parents find it really hard to accept what their children are going through."

We need to encourage each other to listen and share openly

Ridhima

3 months ago

A greater emphasis on mental health in black and ethnic minority communities is still needed.

We've made progress, but there needs to be more representation

Bernice

3 months ago

At times I did wonder if my experiences were different to other people’s, but I just didn’t have the right words to articulate what was going on.

Attitudes towards dissociation have left me feeling isolated and uncomfortable

Hazel

3 months ago

It’s important to use World Mental Health Day as a chance to tackle taboos and give people the opportunity to learn from others’ experiences, which may differ from their own.

People have put labels on me and made assumptions about my experiences

Sandeep

3 months ago

I always felt that if I spoke about how I felt, I would be laughed at, or look weak.

Stigma and experiences of abuse stopped me from speaking out about my mental health

John

3 months ago

There have been occasions where I have felt very isolated due to my diagnosis

There is no shame in experiencing schizoaffective disorder

Josh

4 months ago

Everyone's experience of mental health is different
Show your support
Show your support and let people know you're getting involved in World Mental Health Day by sharing our graphics online. You could post them on social media, include them in a email or use them in a blog about mental health stigma and discrimination.
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Get involved in your workplace
You can now download your Workplace Activity Pack. It includes 10 different activities to choose from, suggestions on how to deliver your event remotely, materials to use on your intranet or in newsletters, and signposting information for mental health support.
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Get involved in your university
Download your pack to help get people talking about mental health in your university. The included resources and activities are suited for all audiences so you can use them in tutor groups, student unions or department staff rooms.
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