People across Northern Ireland are taking positive steps to look after their mental health, according to new polling released by the Mental Health Foundation for Mental Health Awareness Week.
The survey of more than 3,000 adults across Northern Ireland shows that four in five (82%) have taken at least one action to support their mental wellbeing in the past month. The most common actions include spending time outdoors or in nature, and doing something enjoyable or relaxing, such as hobbies, reading or listening to music, with more than half of adults (51%) doing these activities specifically to support their mental health.
Mental Health Awareness Week (May 11 to 17) this year focuses on 'action', and the Mental Health Foundation is encouraging people to prioritise enjoyable, everyday activities that support mental wellbeing and help build resilience. Even small actions can make a big difference, and the charity is sharing resources and tips throughout the week to help people find something that's right for them.
Everyday Actions Make a Difference
Karen Hall, head of Northern Ireland for the Mental Health Foundation, said: "These findings show strong awareness and motivation among people in Northern Ireland to look after their mental health through everyday actions. Small things, like going for a walk or taking time to relax, can make a big difference to how we feel and how we cope with life's ups and downs."
"Just as we brush our teeth each day, caring for our mental wellbeing should be part of our daily routine, helping us to stay resilient, grounded and better able to manage whatever comes our way."
Barriers Remain for Many
However, the charity warns that personal action is only part of what's needed for good mental health for all. While many people are taking positive steps, most face barriers that make it harder to prioritise their mental wellbeing. Only one in five adults (21%) say there are no barriers stopping them from taking action, with work pressure, lack of time, cost and difficulty accessing support among the challenges people report.
These pressures highlight the wider conditions that shape mental health and the role of government in helping to remove barriers and create environments where good mental health can flourish. More than two-thirds of adults in Northern Ireland (68%) believe the Northern Ireland government is doing too little to support people's mental health.
Call for Stronger Government Action
Karen added: "It's encouraging that so many people are already taking steps to support their mental health, but individuals can't do this alone. Our mental health is shaped by factors such as secure incomes, good-quality housing, access to green space, and timely, appropriate mental health services, all of which require political leadership and sustained investment."
"Government has a crucial role to play in creating the conditions that allow good mental health to flourish. When so many people are telling us that not enough is being done, it's a clear call for stronger action."
About Mental Health Awareness Week
The Mental Health Foundation is the home of Mental Health Awareness Week. This year's theme is 'action' because, while awareness is vital, real change comes when people take practical steps to support good mental health, and policymakers tackle the root causes of mental ill health. For more information and advice, visit mentalhealth.org.uk/action.
