Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May), led by the Mental Health Foundation, shines a spotlight this year on Action, recognising that small, practical steps can make a meaningful difference to mental wellbeing.

To mark the week, we are sharing insights on our R&D social media platforms from researchers across disciplines at our Biomedical Research Centre: Oxford Health and our Clinical Research Facility: Oxford Health

• Biomedical Research Centre (BRC): Oxford Health: LinkedIn and Bluesky.
• Clinical Research Facility (CRF): Oxford Health: LinkedIn and Bluesky

Each post highlights one simple, evidence‑informed action that can help protect or support good mental health, drawing on real‑world research experience.

From the importance of sleep, social connection and physical health, to acting early, finding purpose and reducing stigma, our campaign reflects a clear message: everyday actions matter, and research plays a vital role in understanding what works.

We encourage colleagues, partners and the wider community to visit our BRC and CRF social channels, engage with the posts, and help amplify the message by liking, sharing and commenting. By taking action together, we can support better mental health across our communities during Mental Health Awareness Week and beyond.

Professor Rachel Upthegrove

Director of the BRC: Oxford Health, Professor Rachel Upthegrove MBE told us: “Mental Health Awareness Week is a powerful reminder that research doesn’t just generate knowledge, it helps inform real actions people can take in everyday life. By sharing insights from across our BRC, we want to encourage conversations about mental health and highlight practical steps that can support positive mental health and wellbeing across everyday life”.

Claudia Hurducas

Manager at the CRF: Oxford Health, Claudia Hurducas said “Clinical Research Facilities play a key role in enabling high‑quality research to happen safely and effectively. During Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s a privilege to support studies that translate directly into actions people can take to improve mental wellbeing in everyday life.”

Contact the BRC: ohbrcenquiries@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk

Contact the CRF: oxfordhealth.CRF@nhs.net