It’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2026, a week to reflect on the importance of good mental health, improve understanding, challenge stigma and encourage people to seek support when they need it. 

Raising awareness about mental health has always been central to this week, however awareness is not always enough, and the Mental Health Foundation theme this year is action. 

You can read more about the actions we can all take to improve mental health here: Take action for good mental health | Mental Health Foundation

This week is also a reminder that support is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, support is available across Manchester. 

Urgent Support

• Samaritans, call 116 123, for free and confidential support 24 hours a day: Contact Us | Samaritans
• NHS 111 Mental Health, if you feel mentally unsafe or severely distressed, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.

Local Charities and Support

• Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust: Home | Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS FT
• Manchester Mind: Manchester Mind – Independent local mental health charity
• 42^nd Street: support for young people: 42nd Street | Home |
• The Big Life Group, Self Help: Self Help – The Big Life Group
• Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership, community crisis drop-in: Mental health – community crisis drop in services | Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership