Mental Health Awareness Week 2026: Taking Action for Our Wellbeing
Small actions can make a big difference
Mental health is something we all experience differently, and it can change over time. Some days feel manageable, others more challenging. Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to remind ourselves that small everyday actions can help support wellbeing and build resilience.
This approach is reflected in the 10 Days of Happiness programme developed by Action for Happiness – a free, research‑based programme that focuses on one small, positive action each day to support mental wellbeing.
What is the 10 Days of Happiness programme?
The 10 Days of Happiness programme is a free online wellbeing course that introduces one small, research‑backed action each day to support happiness and mental wellbeing. The programme is based on the Ten Keys to Happier Living, including:
- Giving
- Relating (connecting with others)
- Exercising
- Awareness (mindfulness)
- Trying new things
- Direction
- Resilience
- Emotions
- Acceptance
- Meaning
Each day focuses on one of these areas, encouraging people to pause, reflect and take a small positive step that fits into everyday life. The programme is designed to be accessible, flexible, and suitable for challenging times.
You can find out more and sign up here:
👉 Join the 10 Days of Happiness programme
Taking action during Mental Health Awareness Week
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re encouraging people to “Take Action” in ways that feel right for them. Here are some simple examples inspired by the 10 Days of Happiness approach:
💚 Notice what’s good
Take a moment to notice one small thing that made you smile or brought a sense of calm today. Practising gratitude can help create emotional balance, even when things feel difficult.
🧠 Be present
Try a short mindful pause – focusing on your breathing for 30 seconds can help quiet busy thoughts and bring your attention back to the present moment.
🤝 Reach out to someone
Connection matters. Sending a message, making a quick call, or checking in with someone can strengthen relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.
💚 Do something kind
Small acts of kindness – offering help, saying thank you, or being patient – can support both your own wellbeing and that of others.
🚶 Move in a way that suits you
Movement doesn’t need to be intense. A gentle walk, stretching, or dancing to music all count and can support both mental and physical wellbeing.
🌿 Build resilience
When times are tough, focusing on what you can control, reaching out for support, or taking a positive pause can help you cope and move forward.
Keep the action going
Mental Health Awareness Week may last one week, but the actions don’t have to stop there. Small, consistent changes can have lasting benefits for mental wellbeing.
We encourage everyone to keep finding simple ways to look after their mental health – and to support the wellbeing of others too.
For daily wellbeing inspiration and practical actions, you can sign up to the free 10 Days of Happiness programme here:
👉 10 Days of Happiness – Action for Happiness
Local mental health support in Rotherham
While small actions are important, support is also available locally in Rotherham if you need help, advice, or someone to talk to.
🟢 Healthwatch Rotherham Mental Health Services Directory
Healthwatch Rotherham has created a Mental Health Services Directory listing local and national support services, with contact details and information on how to access them.
👉 Mental Health Services Directory – Healthwatch Rotherham
The directory includes support for adults, children and young people, crisis services, bereavement support, talking groups, and specialist mental health services.
🟢 RotherHive – Wellbeing and mental health support
RotherHive is the local wellbeing and mental health resource for adults in Rotherham. It brings together trusted information, self‑help resources, and details of local support services across a range of mental health and wellbeing topics.
🟢 Rotherham Safe Space
Rotherham Safe Space offers free, out‑of‑hours mental health support in a non‑clinical and welcoming environment for adults aged 18+. Support is available face‑to‑face, by phone, or by email.
📞 0800 246 5059
📧 rotherhamsafespace.mhm@nhs.net
🕕 Open Thursday–Monday, 6pm–midnight
👉 Rotherham Safe Space – Mental Health Matters
🟢 RAW People (formerly S62)
RAW People has a range of support options available to connect you with a new community, providing a feeling of positivity and togetherness. Offers a range of services such as, mix of one-to-one support and peer groups.Whatever you are currently experiencing, we can support you.
🟢 Support for children and young people
Healthwatch Rotherham also provides a Young People’s Directory, signposting mental health services and support specifically for children and young people in Rotherham.
Urgent help
If you or someone you know needs urgent mental health support:
- Call NHS 111 for urgent mental health help
- Call 999 in an emergency
