Hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from Monday 15th – Sunday 21th May 2023 and the theme this year is ‘anxiety’.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems we can face. Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but it’s important that we recognise and respond when we feel anxious, so that our anxiety doesn’t become overwhelming. On a positive note, anxiety can be made easier to manage. This year's Mental Health Awareness Week will increase people's awareness and understanding of anxiety by providing information on the things that can help prevent it from becoming a problem.

Coping with anxiety

Dealing with anxiety can be hard. But there are some things we can do to manage these tough feelings such as breathing techniques, exercise, talking to others and sleep hygiene. Find out more tips for coping with anxiety (Mental Health Foundation).

You can get involved on social media by sharing your coping strategies and raise awareness with the hashtag #ToHelpMyAnxiety.  

Talking about our experiences of anxiety can help us to normalise conversations about anxiety and mental health.  This can help people feel more confident talking about anxiety and how it affects them.  Most importantly, these conversations can help people understand more about what they can do to manage anxiety and the support available.

• For practical advice, tools, helplines and support groups visit the NHS Live Well website.  
• For expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing try the NHS Every Mind Matters website.
• Leeds Mind is focusing on the impact that the cost of living crisis is having on our mental wellbeing. Leeds Mind can help you and people you know feel more able to cope. Call 0113 305 5800 or info@leedsmind.org.uk.
• The Business Disability Forum (BDF) have a Mental Health Toolkit available to everyone. For full access to the BDF Knowledge Hub register with your University of Leeds email address on the BDF signup webpage.