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National Mental Health Awareness Week

It's time to prioritize your mental health and spread awareness during National Mental Health Awareness Week. Let's break the stigma together!

Monday

10–16

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESecond Monday in May (Mon-Sun, 7d)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYMental Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to raise awareness and show support for mental health on National Mental Health Awareness Week, starting on May 10! This week-long observance was first established in 1949 by the Mental Health America organization to educate the public about mental health issues and promote overall well-being. It's a time to come together and break the stigma surrounding mental health, while also recognizing the importance of taking care of our minds as well as our bodies. Let's spread positivity and understanding during this important week.

TIMELINE

National Mental Health Awareness Week Timeline

Establishment of the Week

Mental Health America organization first established National Mental Health Awareness Week to educate the public about mental health issues.

Federal Focus on Mental Health

The U.S. government recognizes the importance of mental health care, leading to the construction of community mental health centers.

National Alliance of Mental Illness Formed

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) was formed, which played a significant role in the promotion of mental health awareness in America.

U.S. Congressional Recognition

The U.S. Congress officially declared the week of May as an annual observance for National Mental Health Awareness Week.

Social Media and Mental Health

The rise of social media platforms created new avenues for spreading mental health awareness and breaking the stigma.

COVID-19 Impact

Mental Health Awareness Week took on even more importance due to the additional mental health challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Mental Health Awareness Week

Start a mental health journal

Use this week as an opportunity to reflect on your mental health and start a journal to document your thoughts and feelings. This can be a helpful tool for self-care and self-awareness.

ATTEND

Attend a mental health workshop or seminar

Check your local community centers or mental health organizations for workshops or seminars about mental health. These events can provide valuable information and resources for those looking to learn more about mental health.

PRACTICE

Practice self-care

Take some time to focus on yourself and practice self-care during this week. This can include activities like yoga, meditation, going for a walk, or indulging in your favorite hobbies.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to share information and resources about mental health. You can also use hashtags like #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek to join in on the conversation and spread awareness.

ORGANIZE

Organize a mental health fundraiser

Gather friends and family to organize a mental health fundraiser, such as a charity walk or run, to support mental health organizations and raise awareness for the cause.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Mental Health Awareness Week is Important

National Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us all to take care of our own mental health and to seek help when needed. It also provides valuable resources for those who are struggling with mental health issues to find the support they need.

It brings attention to mental health issues

Mental Health Awareness Week helps shine a spotlight on important mental health issues that often go unnoticed or untreated. This awareness creates a dialogue and opens up conversations about the importance of taking care of one's mental well-being.

It promotes education and understanding

During this week, organizations and individuals come together to provide educational resources and information about mental health. This helps reduce stigma and promote understanding of the diverse range of mental health issues people face.

Related holidays

Mental Health Awareness Month

An institutional initiative during May created by Mental Health America in 1949 to promote mental health awareness and education.

Mental Illness Awareness Week

Shine a light on the reality of mental illness during Mental Illness Awareness Week. Information, empathy, support: it all begins with awareness.

World Mental Health Day

Take time to focus on your mental health this World Mental Health Day - practice self-care and prioritize your wellbeing!

National Silence the Shame Day

On National Silence the Shame Day, let's break the stigma surrounding mental health and have open conversations to support each other.

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