The Rise of Mental Health Awareness in the UK: Why Mental Health Is Everyone’s Business

Mental health has come a long way in the UK. What was once a taboo topic, often brushed under the carpet, is now part of everyday conversation — in schools, workplaces, and around kitchen tables. More people than ever are recognising the importance of looking after their mental well-being, and the ripple effect is showing up in better support, stronger policies, and more open dialogue.

Mental Health Is Everyone’s Business

The truth is, mental health isn’t just a personal matter — it’s collective. It affects all of us, whether directly or through the people we care about. This Mental Health Awareness Month is the perfect time to stop treating it like a side conversation. Struggling silently should never be the norm. Mental health is health — it shapes how we show up at work, in relationships, and in life. It’s time we gave it the attention it deserves.

Changing the Conversation

Not so long ago, mental health was only whispered about. Today, things are changing for the better. Thanks to powerful campaigns, advocacy, and real people sharing real stories, it’s becoming normal (and encouraged) to talk about how we’re really feeling.

And the statistics speak volumes:

• In 2023, around 1 in 5 children and young people (aged 8 to 25) in England had a probable mental disorder (NHS Digital, 2023).
  

• Approximately 1 in 4 adults experience a mental health problem every year (Mind, 2023).
  

• In 2023, there were 7,055 registered deaths by suicide, a 7.1% increase compared to 2022 — and early indications suggest 2024 may sadly see even higher numbers (ONS, Suicides in the UK, 2023).
  

These aren’t just numbers — they’re our friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours. Mental health affects us all.

Campaigns Creating Real Impact

Although some landmark campaigns like Heads Together have now concluded, their legacy lives on. Today, initiatives like Every Mind Matters from the NHS continue to provide practical tools to support mental well-being for people of all ages.

Organisations such as Mental Health UK and YoungMinds are creating safe spaces for conversation, resources, and community — helping people feel seen, supported, and empowered to seek help when they need it most.

Yet, awareness is just the beginning. What we do next is what counts.

Mental health isn’t personal — it’s collective.
Workplaces, families, communities — we all have a part to play.
Awareness is step one. Action is step two.

Support Is More Accessible Than Ever

Thanks to increased awareness, access to support has never been better:

• NHS Mental Health Services: Free services, including talking therapies and counselling.
  

• Samaritans: Confidential, 24/7 emotional support.
  

• Online platforms: Services like BetterHelp, Calm and Headspace make support flexible and accessible, especially for those who might find it hard to seek help in person.
  

Mental Health in Schools

One of the most positive developments is the rise of mental health education in schools. Programmes like #MyMind by the Anna Freud Centre and organisations such as Place2Be are helping children and young people understand their emotions, learn healthy coping strategies, and feel safe opening up about mental health.

Given that 75% of mental health problems develop before the age of 24 (Mental Health Foundation), early intervention is absolutely crucial.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA): Spotting the Signs

More than 2.5 million people in the UK have now completed Mental Health First Aid training. It’s not just healthcare professionals — teachers, managers, parents, and community leaders are learning how to spot the signs of poor mental health, offer initial support, and signpost people to professional help.

This movement is helping to ensure mental health support is available in everyday life, not just clinical settings.

What Can You Do?

This Mental Health Awareness Month — and beyond — don’t just talk about mental health. Act on it:

✔ Check in without trying to fix things.
✔ Listen without judgement.
✔ Make space for honesty.
✔ Share a helpful resource.
✔ Challenge stigma when you hear it.

It’s not about having all the answers — it’s about showing you care.

A Gentle Reminder from CHILL

At CHILL, we believe that well-being isn’t about achieving perfection — it’s about finding balance. Feeling good isn’t about fixing everything overnight. Whether it’s reaching out to someone, taking a breather, or simply knowing you are not alone — you’re already doing something important.