Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 takes place between May 11th—17th 2026.

The aim of the week is to encourage and promote good mental health practices throughout various areas of society such as schools and workplaces. People who are visually impaired are far more likely to experience mental health problems compared to their sighted peers due to factors such as isolation and loneliness. If these go on for a prolonged period of time, this can lead to poor mental health which can be damaging in the long term.

Take action towards your mental health with NAB.
The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 is take action. Whatever action you choose to take, whether big or small, can make a huge difference to someone’s mental health. If you’re struggling with your mental health, particularly if you’ve recently received a sight loss diagnosis, we strongly encourage you to reach out to us here at NAB. We offer a wide variety of services that can help to improve your mental health in all shapes and forms. We have a wonderful Befriending service where a volunteer can either come and visit you in the comfort of your own home once a fortnight or have a regular friendly chat on the phone. The beauty of this service is that there is no time limit: your befriender is there for as long as you need them. They can provide essential companionship and comfort at a time when you need it most. NAB also runs relaxed, informal monthly social groups across the county, which give you the opportunity to connect with fellow visually impaired people and form lasting friendships. This can also be a great way to meet people who truly understand your situation and share personal experiences and stories with those who know what it’s like to live with sight loss. We have a packed programme of SocialEyes activities and outings throughout the year too where you have a chance to try something new and get out of your comfort zone which can also work wonders for your mental health. For example, these include dancing lessons, theatre trips, a day out to the seaside in the summer and a fun festive outing at Christmas. Our fantastic team of Community Support Workers can visit you in your home and demonstrate a wide range of assistive technology and other equipment that can enhance your independence. If you’re new to sight loss and aren’t sure what technology is out there, the community support workers possess the patience and expertise that is required and will work with you until the right solution has been found. If you or someone you know may be interested in any of these services, please give our friendly and approachable team a ring today on 01604719193 and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Get involved.
If you would like to get involved and show your support for Mental Health Awareness Week, there are lots of ways you can do so. There are plenty of free resources to download from the Mental Health Foundation website including posters, templates logos and activity sheets. Whatever you choose to do to take action this Mental Health Awareness Week, find yours with NAB. Let’s celebrate the community and togetherness Mental Health Awareness Week brings and spread it far and wide.