Mental Health Awareness Week 2026: Belonging Matters
The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) is running its annual campaign Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) from 12 until 18 October 2026 that helps Kiwis understand what boosts their wellbeing and improves mental health.
The MHF have been running it since 1993 when not many people wanted to talk publicly about mental health. How times have changed for the better!
Each year features a new theme as there isn’t just one way to wellbeing and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach that will work for everyone in Aotearoa.
This year's theme is BELONGING MATTERS, encouraging you to connect with others as you bring the Five Ways to Wellbeing into your daily life.
It may seem obvious, but it's true – belonging feels good. Research tells us that a strong sense of belonging is good for our mental health.
A sense of belonging doesn't only matter for ourselves, but also for those around us. Looking after our neighbours and our mates matters. Showing up and being there when you're needed matters. Lending a hand and reaching out matters. It's all the small actions we take to nurture a sense of belonging that matters to those around us and their mental health.
Look after your neighbours and friends by topping up together with the Five Ways to Wellbeing this Mental Health Awareness Week.
Me aro tonu/ Take Notice. Tukua / Give. Me kori tonu / Be Active. Me whakawhanaunga / Connect. Me ako tonu / Keep Learning.
Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
With your food basket and mine, the people will flourish.
For more information on MHAW and the five daily activities, click here.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2026
Need Support?
For further information, contact Michael Prisk at michaelp@businesscanterbury.co.nz or reach out to our HR Advice team at hradvice@businesscanterbury.co.nz.
