Mental Health Awareness Week

The theme of Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 is anxiety.

Anxiety is a common emotion that we’ve likely all experienced at some point in our lives. People living with an anxiety disorder will feel intense levels of anxiety frequently, which can deeply impact their quality of life.

Anxiety disorders affect over 8 million people in the UK – that’s a little over 1 in 10 of us – and there are lots of different types.

Whilst anxiety can help us to focus or take extra care when needed, if it gets too much for us or if it persists, it can have a negative impact on our daily life. The good news is that there are simple ways to help manage symptoms of anxiety.

Top tips for easing anxiety
Spot the signs
Get active
Set up a daily worry time
Reduce tension
Challenge unhelpful thoughts
Sign up to anxiety easing emails
Search "Every Mind Matters"

NHS Mind Plan

Answer 5 simple questions to get your personalised mental health action plan with tips and advice to help you deal with stress and anxiety, boost your mood, sleep better, and feel more in control.

You can also sign up to a 4-week email programme for reminders and to swap in new tips. Doing the small things can make a big difference.

Click here to start your free Mind Plan

Be active for your mental health

One of the best things we can do for our mental health and wellbeing is to be active – it's a natural mood booster.

Our bodies release feel-good hormones when we’re active that can also reduce anxiety, stress – and help us sleep better.

There are lots of free and affordable ways to get moving for all ages and levels of physical ability.

Active 10

Active 10

Track and build up your daily walks – start with 10 minutes every day!

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

Couch to 5k

Couch to 5k

A running app for absolute beginners, as well as recent Couch to 5K graduates.

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

Less than half of people in England are aware that physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety
Over two thirds of people in England felt their mood boosted after doing physical activity regularly