Why Mental Health Awareness Month is important

Mental health is defined as "an individual's overall emotional, psychological and social well-being". In the last few years, the UK has been experiencing a mental health crisis. Discussions regarding the NHS, UK politics and mental health representation in media aside, it becomes clear that throughout the nation, individuals are struggling more than ever: 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem each year in England. Studies have highlighted risk factors that increase this statistic: students are more likely to struggle with "common" mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and international, mature, neurodiverse, and LGBTQ+ students are even more likely to experience mental health issues. Imperial students are not immune. With academically demanding courses, expensive costs of living and (somewhat) stereotypically limited social lives, it's no wonder students at Imperial are struggling.

If you are struggling, please don't hesitate to reach out for support. The Imperial College mental health website lists the Imperial College Health Centre, the Counselling and Mental Health Advice Service and the Disability Advisory Service as places where students can receive support. Alternatively, there is a list of external services and their respective phone numbers. As per recommended on the website, if your safety is at risk, please contact 999 or go to the A&E department of the hospital closest to you.

As Mental Health Officer (2024-26), it is my responsibility to "represent students with mental health issues and ... to improve the experience and wellbeing provisions in place for student mental health at Imperial", which is admittedly a daunting task. Most of my first year in the role has consisted of learning, liaising and planning. One of my main statements during my 2024 campaign was: "I strongly believe an individual's mental well-being should not be sacrificed in the pursuit of a successful career or student experience", something I still passionately believe. To give students the opportunity to reach out to others, learn about mental health, mental well-being and the support offered at Imperial, the Mental Health Network is running a list of events in May during Mental Health Awareness Month.

What is mental health awareness month/week?

Mental Health Awareness Month is a campaign that takes place in May organised by many charities across multiple countries with each organisation's aim being to facilitate and empower smaller local groups to run various outreach events to spread awareness about different mental health conditions, their symptoms and the challenges associated with navigating day-to-day life with mental health struggles.

Why is this campaign important?

Spreading awareness and reducing stigma are phrases often used when reading about campaigns surrounding mental health. This is mostly because there's still so much work to do: a lot of society will not know the medical background and/or nature of conditions. There's a lot of misinformation online and, due to the vulnerable and sensitive nature of the topic, mental health is usually not openly discussed. Common misconceptions reinforce this pattern which can add further difficulties for individuals already struggling with their health. As previously mentioned above, students are at a high risk of experiencing mental health problems meaning that conversations should be encouraged and accessible support to all students should be provided.

What are we, the Mental Health Network, doing?

Within Imperial College Union, the Mental Health Network is collaborating with students, other networks, and Move Imperial to run a series of events throughout the month of May as part of a student-led Mental Health Awareness Month campaign.

These events include yoga, creative writing, clay sculpture workshops, creative spaces and a colour run (or walk) in Hyde Park. They were chosen with the aim of giving students and staff the opportunity to try something new and/or re-discover an old hobby whilst meeting new people and making new friends. A variety of activities have been chosen. Exercise is important for well-being, but we wanted to make sure we have activities accessible to all and something for people less interested in physical activity.

Please come along and don't hesitate to bring someone else - all events are open to students and staff. It's also worth noting, if you're nervous about the run/would rather enjoy the event at a slower pace, there will be a group walking the route.

Finally, this is a busy and stressful time of year. Look after yourselves and don't hesitate to reach out for help or support.