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 affected by severe 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

Light up lives this Christmas

2020 has been a difficult year for our carers. Help us spread a little cheer this festive period.

Find out more

Our latest blogs

Tips for a happier, Covid-secure Christmas.

18/12/2020

This time of year can be difficult for people living with mental illness, and this year is no exception. As we head into our first "social distanced Christmas", we asked our supporters how they will manage their wellbeing.

17/12/2020

Whilst the NHS regularly produces and shares planning documents, the latest – the NHS Long Term Plan – could be the most important for people severely affected by mental illness, their carers and organisations involved in the care and support of people with severe mental illness in a generation.

17/12/2020

Our Public Affairs and Stakeholder Manager, Tristan Westgate, looks back at a turbulent twelve months. He delves into the political impact of Covid-19 and other issues from 2020 for Boris Johnson’s government, and looks at what affect this will have on people severely affected by mental illness as we head into 2021.

09/12/2020

Recovery can mean many different things for people. In 2019, following the breakdown of her relationship and being signed off from a job she loved, Sarah decided bold steps were needed to find her path back to health and happiness. This is her story.

30/11/2020

We've gone through the chancellor's Spending Review so you don't have to. Our Public Affairs and Stakeholder Manager, Tristan, answers questions on what the review means for people severely affected by mental illness and their carers.

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How we are making a difference

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.

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 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.