This year’s theme: Anxiety
Monday 15th May marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week 2023, which runs until 21st May.
This year’s theme is anxiety, one of the most common mental health problems people face. Anxiety is a normal body response and we all experience feelings of anxiety whether we recognise it or not. However, some people find it hard to control their worries.
According to a recent survey by the Mental Health Foundation, a quarter of adults reported feeling so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they wanted to do some or all of the time. At Step One Charity, we aim to reduce the stigma surrounding anxiety and provide support and resources to those affected.
How to get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week 2023
Mental Health Awareness Fair
There are various events along with free courses and peer support groups that you can get involved with during this important awareness week. Recovery Devon‘s Mental Health Awareness Fair on May 16th at Exeter Library is one of them. We will be there along with other fantastic local mental health service providers, sharing useful information, resources, and support on managing anxiety. It’s an excellent opportunity for you to learn more about anxiety, ask questions, and find out what support is available to you.
Free support
During the week, we also have ongoing peer support groups like our Men’s Wellbeing Walk and Craft Group, along with regular online groups: All Welcome Wellbeing, Anxiety Café and Carers Connecting. Our BeWell@StepOne courses, workshops, and peer support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where you can connect with others, learn new skills, and improve your mental health and wellbeing.
Wear it Green Day
In addition to the events and support groups, it’s Mental Health Foundation’s ‘Wear it Green Day’ on Thursday 18th May – a day where you can show your support for mental health by wearing something green and sharing your photos using the hashtag #WearItGreen. Let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote positive conversations!
Visit Mental Health Foundation’s website to find out more and for some great free resources.
Make a difference
You can make a huge impact by fundraising, volunteering, or making a donation to Step One Charity in support of our Great West Run runners on May 21st. Every contribution counts and helps us provide more support and resources to those in need.
Bloom Festival
A day of community activity in support of mental health and wellness. Meet with communities and organisations including Step One Charity to support mental health and wellbeing across Exeter and the South West. Take part in free creative activities, share your thoughts and experience culture that explores mental health. More information to be announced soon. Keep an eye on the Exeter Phoenix website!
Urgent support
Don’t forget, if you need urgent support, you can call Samaritans for free at any time (24/7) on 116 123. They are there to listen to you, and you can also email jo@samaritans.org.
Join us this Mental Health Awareness Week and help us reduce the stigma surrounding anxiety. Enrol yourself onto our BeWell@StepOne courses, workshops, and peer support groups and show your support by attending local events, wearing something green, or making a donation. Together, we can make a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.
