Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from 12th to 18th May, and the theme is ‘community’, celebrating the power and importance of a cohesive community.
The importance of being part of a community is significant and impacts our own health and wellbeing. Whether it be part of a sports club, a charity, a men’s shed or a choir, to name but a few.
Community and shared spaces allow local groups to develop an inclusive sense of shared identity, and can help to increase the social participation of vulnerable and disadvantaged people in ways that are good for them and the your wider community’s health.
When people see their community as cohesive, this increases their willingness to work together in ways that support mental health.
A major study across 50 countries found that: People who live in disadvantaged or resource scarce postcodes have worse mental health than those in advantaged or resource abundant neighbourhoods. And that people tend to have greater resilience when they feel part of a community, which can prevent symptoms of depression and reduce both stress and anxiety leading to improved physical health outcomes.
It’s important to remember that we all bring something different to the table. Within a community it is not uncommon for everyone to have a different role to play.
Seeing how your role can strengthen your community can help give meaning to life, which can bring strength during difficult times.
We take great pride in our capacity to build communities here at Care for the Carers, so please come along and join us for one of our many events or groups that we have running throughout the year.
Find out about our regular Carers Groups here
Take a look at our What’s On page for all the events, activities and groups you can take part in.
If you need support with your mental health or of someone you support, please visit Getting help with your mental health
