Action to support everyone’s mental health

May 22, 2026

Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May 2026) is an important annual campaign which is dedicated to opening up conversations around mental health. This year’s theme is ‘action’ and we know that real change requires both awareness and action.

This is particularly poignant as we know that spring brings us a sense of positive change and an opportunity to pause and reflect - something that is often overlooked given the demands of everyday life.

At Meridian Wellbeing, we’re proud to play our part in raising awareness about mental health and supporting everyone to take action. That’s why we hosted an event to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week – thank you to our volunteers, Barnet residents and professional staff that helped make it a success.

Attendees were able to try a range of different activities to support their mental health, listen to important stories about lived experience, and learn more about local services.

Remember that taking action can begin with even a small step, like asking for help or reaching out to another.

Why is Mental Health Awareness important?

Sadly, poor mental health remains widespread across the UK. According to the NHS, over 22% of adults aged 16 – 64 are living with a mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression.

In Barnet, with a population of just over 400,000, this would mean that around 80,000 people may be living with a mental health condition.

Loneliness is another major factor affecting our wellbeing. Data from the NHS shows that 1 in 5 adults feel lonely at least some of the time, with younger people particularly affected.

With many of us increasingly working from home or struggling to make social connections, this demonstrates how closely mental health is linked to social connection and the environments we live in.

Moving from awareness to action

While awareness of mental health has grown significantly in recent years, there is widespread recognition that awareness alone is not enough. It’s vital that those who can take practical, meaningful action to support each other.

That action can be simple. Starting a conversation, checking in with someone, or seeking support when it’s needed. But it also involves systemic change to overcome the barriers which prevent people from improving their lives.

Research consistently shows that mental health support is most effective when it takes a holistic, person-centred approach, combining therapeutic support with social connection, lifestyle changes, and community engagement.

That’s why Meridian Wellbeing believes in treating the whole person and empowering them to improve their wellbeing.

The importance of community-led, accessible support

A growing body of evidence shows that community-based mental health services play a vital role in improving outcomes. These approaches help reduce stigma, increase accessibility, and ensure support is shaped around the real needs of individuals.

Most importantly, we know that effective mental health support goes beyond clinical treatment alone. It also involves addressing the underlying challenges people may face, such as social isolation, stress, trauma, or long-term health conditions, and helping individuals feel empowered to actively participate in their own wellbeing journey.

This is where organisations like us at Meridian Wellbeing make a meaningful difference.

With over 30 years of experience, we deliver inclusive, accessible, and person-centred mental health services across London and beyond. Our approach is rooted in partnership, local understanding, and empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing.

Meridian Wellbeing services: action in practice

Meridian Wellbeing’s wide range of services reflects a holistic model of care and recognising everyone’s mental health journey is unique.

Counselling and CBT service: our Counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) service provide a safe, confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions with trained professionals.

Wellbeing Cafés and peer-led support: our Wellbeing Cafés offer welcoming, informal spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and reduce feelings of isolation.

Social prescribing and personalised support: Through initiatives like the Barnet Wellbeing Hub, we embody a social prescribing approach, connecting people with the services and activities that best suit their individual needs.

Activities and wellbeing programmes: From chair yoga to group sessions and workshops, we provide opportunities for individuals to take simple, practical steps to improve their wellbeing.

Final thoughts

The treatment of mental health in the UK has come a long way, but there’s still more that can be done. With a quarter of adults experiencing common mental health conditions and many facing loneliness or barriers to support, the need for action is clear.

By joining us at Meridian Wellbeing, we can all focus on accessible services, community connection, and person-centred care, and work towards a supportive, mentally healthy society for everyone.