2024 Theme
Useful links
Community is... what we create together.
There’s no denying that the past few years have been challenging for Aotearoa, with extreme weather events, rising costs, and political divides affecting us all.
The Mental Health Foundation recently commissioned research to understand how Cyclone Gabrielle and other recent weather events impacted people’s wellbeing. Over 1,500 New Zealanders from affected regions revealed a clear theme: community is the key to getting through tough times.
Community looks different for everyone — that's the beauty of it. It’s about connecting with others to create something together. This MHAW, we’re encouraging the people of Aotearoa to define, build, and celebrate their communities.
Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
With your food basket and mine, the people will flourish.
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About MHAW
MHAW is run annually by the Mental Health Foundation and has been since 1993. MHAW is endorsed by the World Federation for Mental Health and is marked in over 150 countries at different times of the year.
While MHAW is an annual campaign, it is also a gentle reminder to actively prioritise and nurture our mental health beyond the week itself. We believe that people should connect with and tautoko/support each other, while continuing the kōrero about mental health and wellbeing year-round.
What is mental health and wellbeing?
We all have mental health. It’s a taonga/treasure, something to look after so we can lead our best and most fulfilling lives.
The World Health Organisation defines wellbeing as “a state in which every individual realises their own potential; can cope with the normal stresses of life; can work productively and fruitfully; and is able to make a contribution to their community”.
Put simply, wellbeing is about how we feel, and how we function day-to-day.
At least It’s important to remember that with the right tautoko/support, many people can and do recover or live well.
Wellbeing isn’t just for people who haven’t experienced mental distress or illness — it’s for everyone.
Good wellbeing doesn’t happen by accident, it needs nurturing and protecting. Strong social connections are essential for our life satisfaction and overall health, which is why being part of a community can provide us with a sense of belonging, purpose and connectedness. Join us this Mental Health Awareness Week to celebrate the power of community in uplifting our collective wellbeing.