Today (9 May 2022) 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 22nd year and runs from 9-15 May.
This year, the theme for the week is ‘loneliness’. Across the country, people will be reflecting on loneliness and how it impacts our mental health. Long-term loneliness is closely linked to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
CATS Global Schools will be playing its part in helping to raise awareness of this important issue. We will share stories, resources and tips from experts across our school community and from other organisations.
CEO of CATS Global Schools, Chris Stacey comments:
“I’m proud to support Mental Health Awareness Week.
“We recognise that poor mental health can affect students’ learning experiences and their potential, that’s why one of CATS Global Schools guiding principles is to create a positive environment for learning.”
Chris Stacey
CEO, CATS Global Schools
Chris continues:
“Feelings of loneliness, anxiety or even depression can have a significant impact on a student’s ability to engage with their studies, make friends and make the most of their learning experience.
“However, we’re not only committed to looking out for students’ wellbeing, but our employees too.
“During the pandemic, school life changed, classes went online, colleagues went above and beyond, with some spending less time with family, friends or familiar faces – especially if they were shielding or self-isolating – all which may have contributed to loneliness.
“All CGS employees have access to online counselling and support via a 24/7 employee assistance programme and we have trained Mental Health First aiders across schools.”
Mark Rowland Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation said:
“We hope this year’s theme of loneliness will strike a chord with many of us who felt lonely and struggled throughout the COVID pandemic.
“Millions of us experience loneliness from time to time. We know that some people are at higher risk of experiencing loneliness and the evidence shows the longer we feel lonely, the more we are at risk of mental health problems.
“Loneliness deserves more attention and we’re calling on everyone who has struggled as a result of being lonely to share their experiences. We must work together – as individuals, as a society and through government policy – to reduce loneliness and prevent mental health problems by investing in welcoming, social spaces and new community initiatives.”
For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week visit mentalhealth.org.uk/mhaw or CATS Global Schools Mental Health Awareness Week hub. You can also join the conversation on social media using #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek.
