This years Mental Health Awareness Week focuses on the power of community. For many people mental health challenges can be isolating, whether due to stigma, lack of resources, or simply not knowing where to turn for help, they can all feel very overwhelming. That's where the power of community comes in.
Community is more than just a group of people, it's the connection, support and shared purpose that bonds you. Being part of a community offers a sense of belonging, which can be a protective factor for mental health. Your support networks of family, friends, co-workers, local groups or online spaces help navigate stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health struggles.
A strong community offers:
- Empathy and understanding - knowing you're not alone can be huge relief
- Shared resources - access to support groups, helplines and wellness programmes
- Opportunity to give back - volunteering can strengthen your self worth, resilience and friendships
At People First we offer a diverse range of services, from Advocacy, our Hospitality Academy, Youth Support, Inclusion Training, Healthwatch's and more; we see firsthand how interconnected mental health is within every aspect of our lives. Our teams work not just to address immediate needs in our communities but also nurture the long-term needs and wellbeing of those we support.
When one person feels supported it creates a ripple effect across the community. People feel stronger, workplaces more understanding, communities more compassionate. Every department of People First contributes to this vision and every connection made can improve mental health outcomes for everyone. By strengthening our communities we create a world where no one has to face these challenges alone, and we all thrive.
If you or someone you know is struggling there is help available, below are some useful resources.
- North Cumbria NHS Universal Mental Health Crisis Line: 0800 652 2865
- South Cumbria NHS Urgent Mental Health Support Line: 08009530110
- Mind Teesside: 01642 257020
- MindLine Cumbria: 03005610000 or text Mind to 81066
- Impact on Teesside: free mental health service
- Lancs and South Cumbria Mental Health Helpline: 08009154640
- Samaritans 116 123 – Whatever problems you are facing Samaritans are there to listen 24/7
- CALM Campaign Against Living Miserably 0800 58 58 58 – Helpline for men of all ages 5pm – Midnight.
- Papyrus Hopeline 0800 068 4141 – Support and advice for Young People. 9am-Midnight every day
- The Mix Advice and support for under 25s on mental health, physical health, relationships, drugs etc 0808 808 4994 4-11pm
- Mental Health Support | Men Too Raising awareness and providing resources for those struggling with mens mental health
- Silverline The Silver Line Helpline run by Age UK is a free, confidential telephone service for older people.
- Mental Health Services - West Cumbria Mental Health Partnership
- Offload
- The Lighthouse (Cumbria)
- Every Life Matters - Suicide Safer Cumbria