Recognising Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK and Mental Health Awareness Month in the US

This week we mark Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK, which comes in the middle of Mental Health Awareness Month in the US. We’d like to acknowledge some of the organisations working relentlessly to support those struggling with mental illness by providing resources, support, and advocacy.   

• National Council for Mental Wellbeing: With a mission to promote access to high-quality, comprehensive mental health and addiction services, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing aims to ensure all Americans receive the care they need. They offer resources and educational materials, such as Mental Health First Aid, to help individuals and families better understand and cope with mental health challenges.  
• American Psychiatric Association Foundation: This organization focuses on advancing mental health by providing resources, education, and advocacy. Their efforts support psychiatric research, workforce development, and public education about mental health issues. They also provide a Mental Health Topics overview page where you can learn about common mental disorders, including symptoms, risk factors and treatment options.  
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: DBSA offers extensive resources to individuals affected by mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, including their Online Support Groups and Wellness Toolbox. 
• GAMIAN-Europe: As a patient-driven organisation, GAMIAN-Europe seeks to improve the quality of life for people living with mental health conditions. They advocate for patients' rights, provide resources and support, and engage in research to better understand mental health disorders. Their Video Gallery page offers a variety of materials for patients and carers. 
• ABHW: The Association for Behavioural Health and Wellness focuses on reducing stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders. They aim to create a society where people feel comfortable discussing mental health issues and seeking help when needed. Their Resources page offers helpful information for patients.  
• Anxiety & Depression Association of America: ADAA is dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, and related disorders. They provide resources for sufferers and their families. More information here.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA strives to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. They offer resources and support for individuals and families affected by addiction and mental health issues, including a National Helpline. 
• National Alliance on Mental Illness: NAMI is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness through support, education, and advocacy. They offer resources, such as Find Support. 

We want to express our gratitude for the tireless work of all the organisations around the world who are providing support, resources, and advocacy for people living with mental illness. Millions of people across the world live with mental health conditions for which there is no good standard of care. We are determined to build the future of mental health care for people living with often invisible, yet profoundly debilitating conditions.

Please note that we are not able to diagnose, advise, provide acute or chronic care, or make treatment referrals. If you need urgent help, please contact the emergency services or your doctor as soon as possible.