We are Rethink Mental Illness

We improve the lives of people severely affected by mental illness through our network of local groups and services, expert information and successful campaigning. Our goal is to make sure everyone severely affected by mental illness has a good quality of life.

Find advice and information

About mental illness

Here you can find information on different mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and eating disorders. This section also includes symptoms of mental illness and how to cope with suicidal thoughts and self-harm.

Learn more about mental illness About mental illness

Living with mental illness

With the right support and treatment, mental illness doesn't have to be a barrier to a fulfilling life. In this section find out more about medication, treatment options and how to look after your physical health and wellbeing.

Learn more about living with mental illness Living with mental illness

Rights & benefits

It’s important to know your rights when living with a mental illness or caring for someone who does. This section has information on mental health laws, rights and restrictions, social care, welfare benefits, employment and health care. It also includes resources on the police, courts & prison service.

Learn more about rights and benefits Rights & benefits

Information for carers

Our Carers Hub has lots of resources to help carers of people living with a mental illness. This section includes information on social services support for carers, mental illness running in families, confidentiality, supporting someone and what to do in a crisis.

Learn more about being a carer Information for carers

Worried about the cost of living crisis?

If you are experiencing financial difficulties due to the cost of living crisis, our Mental Health & Money Advice Service is here to help. Visit the website today to find out more.

Visit now

Our latest blogs

A day in the life of an advocate

12/08/2022

Shaniqua works as an Independent Mental Health Advocate for Rethink Mental Illness. In this blog, she explains what she does on an average day and how she can support people living with severe mental illness.

08/08/2022

Having had to suppress her emotions as a child, TJ was detained under the Mental Health Act by her parents. After being diagnosed with severe mental illnesses in her 30s, she suffered discrimination from employers. Now 50, she works for Rethink Mental Illness and can talk openly about her mental health.

03/08/2022

We asked a number of people who experience depression whether they felt anti-depressants had helped them or not. Here's what they had to say...

01/08/2022

Rose had a difficult journey before being diagnosed with emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) at 22 years old. Although there are still some bad days, playing with her children, studying for a degree and holding down responsible jobs has proved to her that tailored support can help you live your life.

27/07/2022

After many years of campaigning, research, and working closely alongside experts by experience, we were relieved when the draft Mental Health Bill (the Bill) finally landed on our desks. In this blog, Danielle from our Policy Team explains the changes that the Bill is introducing and what needs to happen next.

25/07/2022

As a teenager, Katie was detained in a psychiatric hospital and supported by an Advocate from Rethink Mental Illness Mental Illness. Two decades later, she is helping others in her role as Acting Associate Director for Community Services, with the very charity which supported her.

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How we are making a difference

We care and support

For nearly 50 years, we have supported thousands of people every year to get through crises, live independently and ensure they don't face mental illness alone. Our network of 140 peer support groups offer a listening ear, practical help and social support. Our 200 plus services include everything from supported housing, one-to-one help for carers, to group activities for people leaving hospital.

We listen and advise

Our website provides advice to millions of people through over 200 award-winning factsheets. Our trusted advisors are also on hand to provide advice on the phone on living with mental illness, medication, care and treatment. They can be called as often as needed and will take time to explain and set out options about what to do next. If you are looking for support, you can trust us to get it right.

We campaign and influence

Driven by people with personal experience of mental illness, we campaign nationally and locally to push mental health up the public agenda and change government policy for the better. Join our movement of passionate campaigners and help us make sure that everyone has access to high quality health care, no matter where they live or what their personal circumstances are.

Read about our campaigns