Mental Health Awareness Week 12-18th May 2025

This year’s theme is community. Communities can be described as a group of people coming together through something they have in common. It can exist in many forms such as a local running group, a peer support group or even a dads WhatsApp group. Whatever it is, the community is supposed to make you feel good about yourself.

Let’s explore why community is important for men’s mental health.

Communities can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and give us a sense purpose. Men thrive when feeling part of a community. We know that people who are more socially connected to family, friends, or their community are happier, physically healthier, and live longer, with fewer mental health problems than people who are less well connected.

Why is this?

Reduces Isolation

Being part of a community helps men feel less alone. When men connect with others, they realise they are not the only ones facing challenges. This sense of belonging can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Encourages Open Conversations

Communities create safe spaces where men can talk about their feelings and experiences. Seeing others share their stories makes it easier for men to open up about their own struggles, which can lead to better mental health.

Provides Support

Communities offer support through friendships, activities, and resources. Whether it’s a sports team, a club, or an online group, these connections provide emotional and practical support, helping men cope with stress and anxiety.

Builds Resilience

Engaging in community activities helps men build resilience. Working together, sharing experiences, and supporting each other strengthens their ability to handle life’s challenges.

Promotes Healthy Habits

Being part of a community can encourage men to adopt healthy habits, such as regular exercise, hobbies, and social interactions. These activities contribute to overall well-being and mental health.

Take a look at some local peer support groups near you What can you do? | Calm your mind

Take Brian for instance……

Brian Crane – Cofounder of Thrive Mental Health and Wellbeing. Brian started his journey setting up a monthly men’s walking group. What started as a few men has grown over 2 years to now include dads and lads. This group is passionate about putting together a community of local men who want to look after each other. For more details visit What can you do? | Calm your mind

For more information on Park runs visit home | Phoenix parkrun | Phoenix parkrun

For local information on how you can keep yourself well visit What can you do? | Calm your mind

If you need help now

If you need urgent mental health support call Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust 24/7 free crisis line 0800 051 1508

It’s free to call from both landlines and mobiles and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to people of all ages who need urgent mental health support (including children and young people).

Need to offload to someone?

24/7 support via phone

Samaritans are there to listen and are available 24 hours a day 365 days a year call 116 123 for FREE

24/7 support via text

Struggling to cope and need to talk you can text 85258 for FREE 24/7 support provided by SHOUT