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Discover more information about Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week is recognised in more than 150 countries worldwide, and the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand has been running it here in Aotearoa since 1993.

With support from Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, the campaign aims to shine a light on positive mental health and encourage people to adopt simple, everyday actions that boost wellbeing.

Every year has a different theme, helping keep the campaign fresh, relevant, and aligned with the latest wellbeing research.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2027 dates have not yet been formally announced. Follow us on social media and sign up to our mailing list to be the first to know when these are shared.

Learn about the 2026 theme, the research that informed it and access recommended resources from other organisations.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 12-18 October. Belonging Matters. Two people tending to a vege patch on a bright sunny day. Text on image says simple moments, deeper connections, better mental health.

Four Stories of Belonging

Real stories of connection, community, and belonging.

Four people sat around a conference table with their laptops, sharing a happy moment.

Research summary

This research summary cites the sources, facts, findings and statistics that helped inform the theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 – Belonging Matters.

Four people sharing a joyous moment while playing mahjong in a sunlight living room.

Belonging matters

The theme of Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 explained.

Five Ways to Wellbeing

The Five Ways to Wellbeing, Ētahi ara e rima ki te ngākau ora, help people stay mentally well.

Helpful links

Other places to find information and tips on looking after mental health and wellbeing.

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