Today marks the launch of Mental Health Awareness Week, the UK’s national week to raise awareness of mental health.   

The week, which is hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, is in its 20th year and runs from 18-24 May. 

This year, the theme for the week is kindness. Across the country, people will be celebrating kindness in a range of digital and creative ways within social distancing restrictions.

Alan Campbell MP said “At time when we must socially isolate, stories of kindness have helped spread a shared sense of connection and joy. The research backs this up – kindness is deeply connected to mental health. The message this Mental Health Awareness Week is that kindness matters. It matters to our mental health and it will matter hugely in the society we build from here – one that better protects our mental health.”