Stronger Together: How Community Boosts Our Mental Wellbeing

This year, Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from Monday 12th May - Sunday 18th May, and is a great chance to reflect on your own mental health and wellbeing. The theme for this year's Mental Health Awareness Week is 'Community', and at Blackburne House we believe in the power of community to increase feelings of wellness.

Community is so important for our mental health - it helps to reduce isolation and loneliness, and other people can be a great support system if we need extra help with our wellbeing. Equally, helping others who may be struggling can be good for our self-esteem. Read on for some ideas for things you can do to become more involved in your community, and in doing so improve your wellbeing.

1. Volunteering

Volunteering with local organisations or charities can give you a sense of purpose that does wonders for your wellbeing. Look into things you're interested in - for example, if you're passionate about animals, see if your local animal shelter needs an extra pair of hands. You can help others and in doing so feel good about yourself!

2. Get outside

Something as simple as meeting a friend or family member to go outside for a walk can increase your feelings of wellbeing, especially now that spring has sprung! Check out these walks in Liverpool for inspiration on where to go for your wellbeing walk.

3. Move your body

Joining a group, whether it's a fitness class, a running club or even a dog walking group, is great motivation to move your body and make yourself feel good. Exercise helps our bodies to release endorphins - natural hormones that can alleviate pain, lower stress, improve mood, and enhance your sense of well-being. You don't have to do strenuous exercise to feel the mental health benefits - taking a yoga class or practicing tai chi is beneficial too.

4. Find an online community

If you can't go outside and move, don't despair - there are online community groups, such as Chatty Cafe's virtual cafes, that you can access from home on your device. You can also join communities on your social media to reduce feelings of isolation if you can't go out much. Remember when taking part in online community activities to always stay secure online!

5. Make new friends

If you feel lonely and like you don't have a group to spend time with, focus on meeting new people from your community. The feelings of belonging from being in a community are great for your wellbeing, as being around other people can help you to feel accepted and valued. If you don't know where to start, come to Blackburne House Bistro on a Thursday morning, where we host a Chatty Cafe table for people who want to come and have a chatter and natter to someone new.

6. Get the family involved

We've seen a lot in the news recently of mums, particularly mums of young children, struggling with their mental health. If you can, try joining local communities such as mum and baby play groups or visiting your local children's centre where you can build a network of other families going through the same things as you. These environments should help you to feel more secure in your wellbeing and remind you that you aren't alone. This summer, Blackburne House will be hosting a brand new Summer School where you can meet like-minded mums and learn something new - a perfect opportunity to grow your community and improve your wellbeing.

7. Support other communities

Shared goals strengthen communities, and working towards a goal as part of a group can be great for your self esteem. Going the extra mile and working towards a goal of supporting a local charity or community group is a great motivator - just look at the London Marathon! While you don't have to run 26 miles to show your support to others, you could help organise a bake sale or a fun run, bringing more people together for a great cause. This will not only improve your wellbeing, but make a difference in your community too! Why not organise a community event to support local women at Blackburne House?

‘The first step can feel a bit scary, as it’s new, but then you start to enjoy yourself and realise you have given yourself a gift.’ – Nana, Blackburne House students and Chatty Café regular

Mental Health Awareness Week is a powerful reminder that none of us are alone - and that by embracing our communities, we can all take meaningful steps toward better mental health and wellbeing. Whether it's volunteering, joining a group, getting outside, or simply connecting with someone new, small actions can have a big impact. At Blackburne House, we believe that community is more than just a theme - it's a vital source of strength, support, and belonging. So, this Mental Health Awareness Week, try taking a small step to get involved in your local community and support your wellbeing.

If you are struggling with your mental health and wellbeing and want to know how you can receive support at Blackburne House, please visit our Wellness Centre page for more information.