February Mental Health Awareness: Time to Talk

Time to Talk Day - 5 February

5 February is dedicated to breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues. It provides a platform for individuals to share their experiences, support one another, and raise awareness about mental health challenges. The initiative is part of a broader movement to reduce stigma and discrimination associated with mental health problems.

Here are some ways you can get involved in Time to Talk Day 2026:

• Start a Conversation: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues and ask how they are doing. Let them know you are there to listen and support them.

• Share Your Story: If comfortable, share your own experiences with mental health to inspire others to open up. You can do this by emailing mentalhealthchampions@midcounties.coop

• Organise an Event: Host discussions or awareness events in your community, workplace, or school to promote mental health resources and support.

• Use Social Media: Spread awareness by sharing messages of hope and support on social media platforms using relevant hashtags.

• Listen Actively: When someone shares their mental health struggles, listen without judgment and encourage them to seek professional help if needed.

Random Acts of Kindness - 17 February

An annual event dedicated to promoting kindness and goodwill. It encourages people to engage in simple, unexpected acts of kindness to brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity.

This day serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and compassion.

Here are some ideas to inspire acts of kindness on 17 February 2026:

• Give Compliments: Offer sincere compliments to friends, family, colleagues and even strangers to uplift their spirits.

• Send Thoughtful Messages: Reach out to friends, family and colleagues with uplifting messages or notes to express your appreciation and support. Don’t forget you can access Thank cards via Colleagues Connect.

• Donate to Charity: Contribute to a charitable organisation or cause that you care about

• Volunteer Your Time: Participate in local charities, shelters, or community events to make a positive impact

Click here to access the Random Acts of Kindness calendar for 2026

We would love to hear from colleagues on how they are celebrating with Random Acts of Kindness, so please comment below!

Eating Disorder Awareness Week - 23 February - 1 March

(EDAW) in 2026 will take place from Monday 23 February to Sunday 1 March 2026, with the theme "Fighting for Change, Committed to Change – Everybody Belongs. Click here to find a recording from our partners at Everymind where Jess Robson and Laura Callaghan talk about disordered eating.

Children’s Mental Health Week

Children's Mental Health Week 2026 will take place from 9 February to 15 February 2026, focusing on raising awareness about children's mental health. Click here to find out more and here  to access children’s mental health support organisations

For mental health and wellbeing support, please contact GroceryAid or speak to a Mental Health Champion.

👉 Click here for more information.