Mental Health Awareness Week

This year, there is a strong focus on the link between physical activity and mental health. You don’t need to run a marathon to feel the benefits. Whether it’s a short walk in a local park, a quick stretch before meetings, or a community football match, moving your body releases chemicals in the brain that lift your mood and reduce stress.

Isolation can be one of the biggest hurdles to good mental health. Building strong community ties, like those found in local sports leagues, or volunteer groups, provides a sense of belonging. Sharing a struggle with a friend or colleague often reveals that we aren’t as alone as we thought. A simple “How are you doing?” can be the start of a life changing conversation.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that small changes can make a significant difference:

Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to extra commitments to protect your peace.

Unplug: Take a break from screens and social media to reconnect with the present moment.

Ask for Help: Reaching out to a professional or a support group is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Mental Health Awareness Week is about breaking the stigma and making sure that no one must struggle in silence. Let’s use this week to be a little kinder to ourselves and more attentive to those around us.

If you are struggling with your Mental Health or just feeling a bit overwhelmed, please know that you don’t have to face it alone. At our Life Hub, we offer a range of completely free activities designed to support your wellbeing and help you reconnect. You can also visit our Neighbourhood Mental Health Café at Loughborough University – a safe, welcoming space to have a chat and find support within the community. Whether you want to get involved in an activity or just need a quiet space to be, we are here for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get involved!

Neighbourhood Mental Health Cafés offer local support for people who need immediate help with their mental health. The cafés are drop-in centres for anyone to come and talk to us about their mental health in confidence - no appointment needed. They are run by partners on behalf of the NHS. We have supportive, trained staff who can listen and provide the practical support you need.

Monday 6pm-9pm

Students Union Building, Ashby Road, Loughborough, LE11 3TT

Thursday 6pm-9pm

Bridgeman Building, Loughborough University, Margaret Keay Road, Loughborough, LE11 3TU

The Life Hub:

The Life Hub is a welcoming, safe & exclusive space dedicated to nurturing your wellbeing.

Offering a variety of activities and workshops, it provides a supportive environment where you can relax, learn and grow. Whether you're seeking mindfulness sessions, creative workshops or wellness programmes, the Life Hub is your community sanctuary for personal growth and holistic health.

Join us to connect, recharge and thrive in a space designed just for you.

53-55 Queens Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11 1HA