Mental Health Awareness Week: Here’s how you can access local mental health support

In support of Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW), which runs from Monday 15 to Sunday 21 May, the council is ensuring that individuals are aware of how and where to access local mental health support.

This year's MHAW theme is anxiety, reflecting the findings of a Mental Health Foundation poll, which revealed that one in ten UK adults feel hopeless about their financial circumstances, while a third of people have experienced general anxiety and stress in the past month.

To assist those affected by anxiety, as well as other mental health and well-being issues, the council has launched an online mental health support directory.


The comprehensive Happy? OK? Sad? website, designed with input from individuals who have personal experience with mental health issues, now offers access to a wide range of mental health support services. These services include local and national resources that can provide assistance and advice for individuals facing mental and emotional well-being challenges, such as:

Anxiety
Bereavement
Drugs and alcohol
Domestic abuse
Gambling
Eating disorders
Self-harm
Stress and depression
Suicidal thoughts
The Happy? OK? Sad? website also features guidance and resources aimed at improving overall physical and mental well-being. The website is open to everyone and provides information for both young people and adults.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, the Cabinet member for public health and well-being, expressed her support for the initiative, stating, "Anxiety can arise from various factors, such as exam pressures, relationships, starting a new job, or facing unexpected events that feel beyond our control. Although anxiety is a common mental health problem, it can be better managed with the right support and advice."

"I am pleased to announce the launch of Warrington's new Happy? OK? Sad? website, a crucial one-stop-shop for support and resources for individuals facing mental health and emotional well-being issues. It's crucial that people know where to turn for the right support, and this website brings together local and national organizations that can provide assistance."

She further added, "During this Mental Health Awareness Week, let's make an effort to reach out to those who may be struggling and seek help ourselves if anxiety or any other mental health issue affects us."

To learn more about Warrington's new one-stop-shop for mental health support organizations, visit: warrington.gov.uk/happy-ok-sad.

FAQs

Q1: What is Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW)?
A: MHAW is a designated week focused on raising awareness about mental health and promoting support and understanding.

Q2: What is the theme of MHAW this year?
A: The theme for this year's MHAW is anxiety.