The Power of Community. Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week 12th - 18th May, the spotlight turns to a theme that resonates deeply with our fundamental human needs: community. At its core, community is about connection, belonging, and shared purpose. It’s the thread that weaves us into the fabric of society, whether that’s within our families, workplaces, neighbourhoods, or even hobby groups.

Why Community Matters for Our Mental Health

Human beings are inherently social creatures. Our brains are wired for connection, and research consistently shows that feeling part of a community boosts both our mental and physical wellbeing. According to the Mental Health Foundation, a strong sense of belonging is associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression, greater self-esteem, and improved quality of life (Mental Health Foundation, 2023).

When we feel accepted and valued by those around us – be it in our workplace, school, or local area, we’re more likely to thrive. Conversely, when people feel isolated or excluded, it can have serious implications for mental health. Loneliness has been described as the "silent epidemic" and is linked to a 26% increased risk of premature mortality (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2015).

The Healing Power of Support

There is also compelling evidence that a strong support network can aid recovery from health challenges. People who feel supported by those around them often recover more quickly from illness and cope better with chronic conditions. One study published in PLoS Medicine found that individuals with robust social relationships have a 50% increased likelihood of survival compared to those with weaker social ties (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). It’s clear: community doesn’t just enrich our lives, it can save them.

Building Supportive Communities at Work

For organisations and teams, the message is clear. Building a sense of community in the workplace isn’t a "nice-to-have", it’s a business and wellbeing imperative. When employees feel they belong, they’re more engaged, resilient, and productive. In contrast, a lack of belonging can lead to higher turnover, burnout, and disengagement.

So, how can organisations foster this vital sense of connection?

• Create psychologically safe environments where people feel comfortable to speak up, share ideas, and express concerns without fear of judgement.

• Encourage inclusive leadership. Managers who listen, empathise, and recognise the diverse strengths of their teams help cultivate belonging.

• Design spaces (physical or virtual) that support interaction, collaboration, and casual connection, from team lunches to online communities.

• Celebrate diversity and individuality while building shared values and collective goals.

• Prioritise peer support programmes and mental health champions, creating visible networks of care and encouragement.

  
  

A Collective Responsibility

Whether you're an employer, a team leader, a colleague, or a community member, each of us has a role to play in strengthening the bonds that hold us together. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s commit to nurturing environments, in all areas of life, where everyone feels they belong.

References:

• Mental Health Foundation. (2023). Mental Health Awareness Week. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk

• Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., Baker, M., Harris, T., & Stephenson, D. (2015). Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for mortality: A meta-analytic review. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 10(2), 227–237.

• Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.