In the last decade, mental health issues have increasingly risen, in particular anxiety and depression-based disorders as well as neurodivergence conditions such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The theme for Mental Health Awareness week 2026 is ‘Action’. It is time to make changes now, no matter how small, making a start is the most important first step you can take.
Taking action on your mental health can provide a sense of; control, stability, improve your relationships, advance your work life balance and aid overall emotional resilience to life stressors.
South Asian Community
According to research in 2025, the alcohol beverage business is expanding, making it the world’s fastest growing markets in India. Here in the UK, alcohol consumption amongst the South Asian community, is a hidden and complex issue, due to the cultural sensitivities and shame surrounding it.
Keeping in mind the theme of taking action, individuals struggling with alcohol-based problems are encouraged to confide in one person who they trust and can turn to. This may be a friend or relative. There are also many support groups available and confidential helplines which may be a more approachable avenue for individuals to utilize. Recognising that alcohol is a problem in one’s life, can provide a sense of freedom knowing that there is hope and life beyond this illness.
Evidence Based Strategies
Some evidence-based interventions for mental health issues, are having a good support network, ensuring you have a good routine and weekly schedule filled with activities that are achieving things, connection with others and enjoying one’s self (ACE). Good sleep hygiene is also essential to ensure stable mental health and wellness. Try sleeping and waking at the same time each day, avoid naps where possible, and avoid checking the time if you do wake up at night.
One of the main techniques from CBT therapy to help you put your goals into action is the SMART acronym. This stands for:
Specific – break down your goal to be simple and ask yourself; “what is the first step I can take with this?”
Measurable – how can you track the progress you are making
Achievable – ensure the goal is attainable to set yourself up for success
Realistic – is the goal realistic with the resources you have
Time – when do you want to achieve the goal by
Wishing all the readers a happy and healthy journey!
Written by Mandeep Jassal
Psychotherapist
Cognitive and Behaviour Therapist (CBT) and Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing Practitioner (EMDR)
German trained couple counsellor
