Taking action for Mental Health Awareness Week

This Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May), we’re embracing the theme Take Action and inviting everyone to get involved in supporting good mental health. 

The National Lottery is proud to fund life‑changing mental health support, including community mental health charities, youth counselling services, peer support groups, crisis support, research projects, and more - making a real difference to people and communities across the UK. 

Alongside this support, we’re encouraging everyone to take action for their own mental health by starting with small, everyday steps. 

The Mental Health Foundation has shared ten simple ways to support your mental wellbeing. You don’t need to do them all - try one or two and see what works best for you.

1. PLAN SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO

Making plans for things we enjoy can increase our sense of hope, which is important for our mental health. It could be a plan to sit down with a cup of tea and take a quiet five minutes, or a long-term plan for an ambitious trip. Whether it’s a big or small goal, the important thing is to plan it.

2. EAT WELL

One of the simplest ways to improve mental health is by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Not only can it support your emotional health, but introducing small habits, such as staying hydrated or having fruit snacks, can help make changes stick more easily.

3. GET CLOSER TO NATURE

Spending time in nature can boost your mood, lessen stress, and help you concentrate.

4. GET GOOD SLEEP

Good quality sleep helps your brain work better, lifts your mood, and is good for your overall health.

5. GET CREATIVE

Spending time on creative activities is a great way to help ease stress and anxiety. Carve out some time to listen to music, paint, sing, or do whatever you enjoy most.

6. MOVE REGULARLY

Being active can boost your mood and raise your self-esteem. It’s also an effective stress management technique. Whether you go for a walk, do some yoga, or vigorously clean the kitchen, it all counts.

7. TRY MINDFULNESS

Being fully aware in the present moment can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges. Aim to notice the colour of the sky, the sound of leaves, or the feeling of your feet on the ground.

8. MAKE TIME FOR FRIENDS

Having good relationships with others can help you feel like you belong, allow you to share experiences, and receive emotional support. It’s a great reason to have a catch-up with a friend on the phone.

9. BE KIND

Bad days happen to everyone. If you’re having a tough time, remember to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. You’re doing the best you can.

10. TALK THINGS OVER WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST

It can take a lot of courage to tell someone else how we’re feeling or what we’re finding hard. Just talking things through with a person we trust can feel like a relief and make us feel less alone.

BECAUSE OF YOU

Thanks to National Lottery players, every ticket helps support projects that make life better for millions of people across the UK.

None of this would be possible without you.

For more tips and information visit mentalhealth.org.uk.