Rethink Mental Illness Press Releases

“I’m now ready to run a marathon for Rethink” – Daniel’s story

A stock photo has been used on this blog at the request of the author.  Trigger warning: restraint, forced medication Daniel shares his journey with schizoaffective disorder. He reflects on his symptoms, using Rethink Mental Illness’ helpline and various …

10 tips to Manage Anxiety and Stress

As the pace of life accelerates, managing anxiety and stress has never been more crucial. Whether it’s from work, personal obligations, or constant digital connection, many of us find ourselves grappling with stress on a daily basis.  Fortunately, there …

"Restricting social security isn't the answer": Our response to the autumn budget

The Labour government has announced its first budget since coming into power, setting out its plans for spending, with important implications for the NHS and the social security system. Mark Winstanley, Chief Executive of Rethink Mental Illness, said: “We’ …

10 Strategies to Manage Anxiety and Stress

As the pace of life accelerates, managing anxiety and stress has never been more crucial. Whether it’s from work, personal obligations, or constant digital connection, many of us find ourselves grappling with stress on a daily basis. Fortunately, there are …

“I have come so far” – Sophie’s story

Sophie explores her journey with treatment resistant schizophrenia, touching on the value of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and Rethink Mental Illness’ Advice and Information Service. I started life with a normal childhood. A happy, stable home, a good …

"Dismantle the systems that make our hearts cower"

10-Year Health Plan for the NHS

A consultation has today been launched to help shape the future of the NHS over the next decade.  Mark Winstanley, Chief Executive of Rethink Mental Illness, said: “This consultation for a new 10 Year Health Plan for the NHS is launching at a vital time. …

Our thoughts on the government’s new Ten-Year Health Plan for the NHS

New government, new ten-year plan for the NHS. Harvey from the Rethink Mental Illness Policy & Practice team outlines what Labour’s view for the NHS means for mental health services and why it remains important to have your voice heard.  This month …

Expert discussion: The challenges in mental health research

More needs to be done by research organisations to include people with lived experience at every stage of a research programme. From setting the priorities to disseminating the findings. It’s important that this is made possible and that that funders …

BBC Garden Rescue presenter, Chris Hull, backs new anti stigma campaign

Photo credit: Suzy Slemen BBC Garden Rescue presenter, Chris Hull, is backing Let's Rethink, our campaign to encourage more people to rethink their preconceptions and stigma towards people severely affected by mental illness. According to a YouGov poll …

The truth about OCD

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety related disorder affecting 1 in 50 people in the UK. Despite being so common, it is a misunderstood condition. We’re here to tell the truth about OCD. Obsessions, compulsions and unhelpful beliefs Everyone’ …

“I have been tutted at, stared at, followed around”

Nikki reflects on her obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), from intrusive thoughts to structured rituals. She shares the damaging stigma she has faced in her day-to-day life from strangers and passers-by.   Hi. I’m Nikki, I am 53 and married to a lovely …

Stigma around mental illness ruins lives

This World Mental Health Day, we want people to learn about the damaging impact of negative attitudes towards those of us living with mental illness. Flick through this image gallery to learn the truth.

Reclaiming narratives: the legacy of UK race riots

Peter Alleyne is our Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Involvement. In this blog, he talks about the theme of 2024's Black History Month, the legacy of this summer's UK Race Riots and their impact on mental health for the Black community …

“Everyone has disappeared since I became unwell”

A stock photo has been used on this blog at the request of the author Two years ago, Jade developed psychosis for the first time. She shares her experiences of stigma and discrimination whilst working in healthcare and at university.  I’m 27 and have been …

Reclaiming Narratives: Black History Month, the Legacy of UK Race Riots

Peter Alleyne is our Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Involvement. In this blog, he talks about the theme of 2024's Black History Month, the legacy of this summer's UK Race Riots and their impact on mental health for the Black community …

“My managers at work treat me differently”

Christopher shares his journey with schizophrenia and severe depression, from crisis point to a fulfilling, peaceful life. Though Christopher is a successful Peer Support Coordinator, he sheds light on his experience of stigma at work.  I started to …

Our mission to end stigma

Busting the myths We know that the myths and stigma that surround mental illness is stopping people seeking the help they need. If we all re-evaluate what we think about mental illness, we’ll be supporting the millions across the UK. Read the facts, forget …

“He thought his daughter was in danger with me”

After experiencing mental illness for most of her life, Kaz was brought to crisis point. She shares how stigma and negative stereotyping disrupted her relationship with her brother and housemate.  I've struggled with my mental health for most of my …

Play your part in tackling stigma