Our blog archive

"I woke up feeling a dark cloud over me" - Sandeep's story

Sandeep tells us about her journey to being diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and how she had tried to take her own life in 2014. Since, Sandeep has become a Lived/Living Experience Mental Health Advocate sharing her story to help others suffering in silence and find hope with their mental health.

How to manage your mental health over Christmas

In this blog, our Advice Team tell us some practical ways to think about the financial and social side of Christmas. We also asked our social media audience for their top tips on staying well over the festive period. So sit back, grab a cuppa and delve into your bumper Christmas wellbeing guide.

Battling bipolar and PTSD - Maria's story

After witnessing a murder, Maria experienced a psychotic episode and was hospitalised. Now, after being diagnosed with PTSD and bipolar, she sees getting through every day as a victory. But there's hope in her future. In this blog, she writes about what steps she takes to manage her symptoms, and outlines the journey she has been on since that traumatic event.

So, let's walk home from here?

Our trustee, Jeremy Connick, lost his first wife to suicide in 2014, and his wife also lost her elder brother. He describes the fundraising trek they made from Italy to England and the mental health benefits he enjoyed by walking and just ‘existing’.

Gary’s story – the long road to BPD diagnosis

Gary tells us about his journey to being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD), the complexities of living with the condition and how he manages his symptoms now.

Living with BPD - "Don’t let anyone make you feel inadequate"

In this blog, Kerry tells us about her experience of living with borderline personality disorder (BPD). After moving from England to Spain, Kerry talks about the impact of trying to settle in to different Western cultures whilst being from a Punjabi family. She also describes the ways in which her diagnosis affects her, and gives advice for others who are having a tough time with their mental health.

Alcohol: the bad medicine - Natasha's story

From seeing drinking as harmless fun as a teen, to experiencing crippling anxiety and negative thoughts. Natasha tells us about her experience of alcohol addiction and explains the huge impact it had on her mental health.

Involving people living with mental illness in the creation of their own services

Involving people who live with mental illness in the design and delivery of their own services is undoubtedly vital to the future of mental health care. But how can we work together to ensure that co-production and efforts to address systemic inequalities can keep pace with the rapid pace of system change?

OCD needs a clean-up

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can have a profound effect on the 1 in 50 people who live with the condition - and while most people associate OCD with order and cleanliness, the truth is - it's way more debilitating than that. In this blog Shaun talks about his experiences and discusses how we must look beyond the stereotypes.

Gaming together for mental health

In this blog, Tom tells us about his love of gaming and the positive impact it has on his mental health. Tom is taking part in our Gaming Get Together virtual fundraising event. Feeling inspired? Sign up today.

Black History Month must not be a symbolic gesture...

Since 1976, Black History Month has celebrated the successes of Black people globally. However, since the senseless murder of George Floyd in 2020, Black History Month has become an even more powerful call to action for us all to address the racial disparities within society so that all Black people are celebrated and treated with respect and fairness.

"Anorexia is not only about weight management" - Victoria's story

Victoria has lived with anorexia for 25 years, and has noticed in that time that the media’s portrayal of her condition doesn’t even come close to what it is really like. Her anorexia impacts her life in lots of different ways, every day. But, after a quarter of a century, she has developed numerous techniques that help her to cope with her diagnosis. Here’s her story.

"Thoroughly draining" - Fiona's experience of suicidal thoughts

For Suicide Prevention Month, Fiona talks us through the times in her life where she was overcome with suicidal thoughts, how she got through the tough times and her message for anyone else experiencing thoughts of taking their own life.

"A bully in my head" - Rose's story

For Suicide Prevention Month, Rose talks to us about the differing opinions on suicide, her own experience of suicidal thoughts and the importance of putting yourself first when searching for ways to cope.

How to manage feelings of grief

After the death of Her Majesty The Queen, we share some guidance on how to manage feelings of grief.

We all have a part to play in suicide prevention

Every year on 10 Sept organisations around the world come together to raise awareness of how to build an environment where less people die by suicide. How well are we doing on that?

Mental Health Manifesto for a new Prime Minister

As the UK will shortly have a new Prime Minister, the Mental Health Policy Group has developed a manifesto, setting out five areas that the next Prime Minister must address in order to improve the lives of people with mental health problems and improve the mental health of the nation.

A day in the life of an advocate

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.

"The shame was overwhelming" - TJ's story

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.

'A psychological cup of coffee': your thoughts on antidepressants

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...

"Find what works for you" - Living with EUPD: Rose's story

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.

Draft Mental Health Bill: What is it and what happens next?

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.

From service user to staff member: Katie's journey

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.

Schizophrenia in film: scary rabbits to blackboard scribbles

Film and television can often be particularly powerful when it comes to shaping people’s opinions on particular subjects. So, 50 years on from our inception in 1972, we started a conversation on our social media channels about how the framing of schizophrenia has changed in the box office and what impact that has on people that experience the condition.

Living with anxiety and experiencing panic attacks - Becki's story

Becki is 26 years old and works with us here at Rethink Mental Illness. In this blog, she talks through her experience of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), what she does to manage her condition and the importance of talking openly about mental health.

Five Tests for the Government’s 10-year Plan for Mental Health and Wellbeing

Thursday 7 July 2022 marked a bit of a milestone. It’s not just the date Boris Johnson decided to step down as Prime Minister. 11.45pm was the deadline for responding to the government’s 10 year plan for mental health and wellbeing.

Accepting my bipolar – my version of success

After feeling like she was constantly failing, Cerys lives life with her bipolar at her side, rather than as a hurdle in her way.

“Out of nowhere, I crashed. Hard.” – Zoe’s story

On average in the UK it takes around 9.5 years for someone to get an accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder. For Zoe, it was a 14 year journey with a big step forward that happened in August 2020.

The importance of Co-Production

"This work has given me new skills and a better understanding of how services work within the mental health sector. I was worried that I would struggle to see change happening, but I can honestly say that co-producing is bringing positive change not just in Norfolk and Waveney but all over England."

Co-production and what it means to me: benefits, challenges and the future

Bo was just 19 when she saw the transformative power of co-production as part of her love of performing. It wasn't until 2020 that she realised that this knowledge could help design mental health services that put lived experience at their heart.

Living with DPDR - “My face in the mirror was unrecognisable”

When Natasha woke up and didn’t recognise herself, her detachment to everything around her was terrifying. As she learnt she was experiencing depersonalisation/derealisation disorder (DPDR), things began to get a little easier until the symptoms finally disappeared.

Why I walked 50 miles in five days for Rethink Mental Illness

Chloe took on the challenge of walking 50 miles in just five days – and she raised crucial funds for us whilst she did it! Here’s her story of living with mental illness and why she chose to raise money to help us in our mission of providing the best possible life for people experiencing mental illness.

How you can get involved in the 10 Year Mental Health Plan

Head of Policy and Influencing, Jeremy Bernhaut, outlines what the government is calling for as it develops a new 10 year plan in a bid to improve the nation’s mental health.

Relationship OCD - "constant, chronic obsession and doubt"

Shannon explains how relationship obsessive compulsive disorder (ROCD) can vary from day to day and person to person, but it doesn’t have to rule your life.

“Don’t let people silence you. Ask for help.”

62 year old Anne has been caring for her son who experiences psychosis whilst juggling other commitments and experiencing her own mental health issues. Here's her story.

Cannabis and psychosis: A father’s story

Terry provides a graphic insight into the impact cannabis and psychosis had on his family. He explains the issues he experienced in accessing support for his son, and the stress that put on him as a carer.

Marking two years since the death of George Floyd

Two years ago, we all witnessed the brutal and unlawful murder of George Floyd by a US police officer which propelled a powerful anti-racist protest movement in the US and across the globe – including here in the UK.

I really can’t choose to leave my bipolar at home - Melanie’s story

37 year old marketer, Melanie has been recently diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder. She discusses the challenge of receiving this news and working out how and why her own perception of it could be so different from other people’s.

“The best decision I’ve ever made” – Ben’s story

After experiencing a breakdown, Ben was put in contact with our Derbyshire Recovery and Peer Support Service and hasn’t looked back since. After setting up his own support group and helping others through their struggles, Ben now works for Rethink Mental Illness and says that he has finally found purpose. Here’s his story.

"Calories on a menu could hinder my recovery"

Katie has lived with an eating disorder for almost 15 years. While she is currently in recovery, she is worried about the government’s decision to make calories on menus mandatory in some restaurants.

Transphobia and mental illness – Deborah’s story

Deborah is a trans woman who experiences depression, anxiety, dissociation and personality disorders. She knows more than most about the impact that being trans can have on your mental health. In this blog, she explains her story and talks about her experience of the intersection between transphobia and mental illness.

The government’s announcement of the long-awaited reform of the Mental Health Act

After many years of campaigning, we are delighted by today’s announcement that the Government will publish draft legislation to reform the Mental Health Act.

Covid-19 left my brother feeling isolated and alone

Richard’s brother has lived with schizophrenia for over 50 years. As he has never engaged in mobile phones or technology, Richard relied on weekly phone calls to keep in contact with him during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although he was able to collect his midday meal from the care home nearby, it was difficult to have visitors during lockdown and he was left alone for large periods. In this blog, Richard explains more about the isolation felt by his brother – and many others living with severe mental illness – throughout the pandemic.

‘Stop, drop and roll’: Schizoaffective disorder – Louisa’s story

Louisa experienced hallucinations as a child. She was diagnosed with acute psychosis at 18 and schizoaffective disorder at 27. Despite having low days, she has learnt to enjoy the days she excels, and is loving life.

Hearing voices - Harjeet's story

Harjeet was diagnosed with psychosis at 24, but with the help of her faith, and a talent for writing, she now helps manage her condition through singing and songwriting.

Fiona’s story: Bipolar – the long view

30 years ago, Fiona was diagnosed with bipolar after four years of untreated depression. Although now retired, she explains how she has self-managed her symptoms and has maintained a long, successful working life.

Our hopes for the 2022 Queen's Speech

Next Tuesday (10 May) at the annual State Opening of Parliament, the Queen’s Speech will set out the government’s legislative priorities for the next parliamentary year...

Embracing Ramadan: how employers and staff can support their colleagues

We are very proud of the diversity within our organisation – not only within our staff but within the communities that we support. Kaneez, our head of community engagement, looks at the importance of Ramadan to her and how we can also support people observing this period in our groups and services.

“Years of recovery” – Candace’s story

After experiencing traumatic bereavements, Candace couldn’t see a future. But with professional help and a strong support network of friends, her recovery journey has led her to a place where she has much to celebrate in her life.

"A perfect fit" - Maria and Roy's supported housing journey

Roy was contemplating taking his life as Maria was thinking about applying for a job at Rethink Mental Illness. They met, became friends, bonded over dogs, and the rest, as they say is history…

“It is still ok not to be ok, even as a parent” Chloe’s story

With a diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder and psychosis, Chloe assumed motherhood was not for her, but in 2018 she found out she was pregnant. On Mother’s Day, she discusses experiencing psychosis after her daughter’s birth, and how it’s crucial to seek support.

Our three recommendations for the government to improve support for people experiencing psychosis

To mark our 50th Birthday, Rethink Mental Illness has launched a national campaign to raise awareness of psychosis and the importance of early intervention. In this blog, Eva Bell, our Policy and Research Officer, explains the three recommendations we have for the government to improve support for people experiencing psychosis.

From severe mental illness and blindness to a CEO with vision: Carolyn's story

After experiencing psychosis and becoming temporarily blind, Carolyn hit rock bottom. But with help from an Early Intervention team and her own resilience, she became a campaigner, gained a degree and is now a successful CEO.

The long road to DID diagnosis - Vanessa's Story

51 year old Vanessa had a “long road” to reach her diagnosis of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), but is passionate about guiding others who suspect they have DID to seek advice.

"The character I play has such similar lived experience to me"

Rethink Mental Illness ambassador Juliette Burton is currently on stage in Measured, a new play examining the hidden consequences of living with an eating disorder. Both Juliette and the writer of the play, Emma, bring their lived experience to the production and we caught up with them to find out more.

"Let’s make people experts in their own mental health"

Jessica, who experiences Schizoaffective Disorder, discusses her idea of creating distance learning courses for mental health conditions so that people can become experts in their own illnesses.

Let’s be clear: we need more transparency from the DWP

Senior Policy Officer, Jasmine Wyeth, outlines the need for more transparency from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and explains that the department must change their practices in order to better support people that access benefits.

"Nature heals" - Trevor's story

After two breakdowns, Trevor was afraid to go outdoors. However, his love of nature and photography led him on a path to recovery.

From psychosis to: Alika's Story

Alika, 31, lives in London where he has built a life he loves. In addition to raising a young family, he has pursued his passion for music, and you can find him on Instagram @AMNOWFREE. He also recently embarked on an apprenticeship and is a mental health campaigner too.

From psychosis to: Imogen's story

Imogen, 27, lives in London and started experiencing psychosis as a teenager. She struggled to get an initial diagnosis. She eventually got the support she needed and is now doing well, studying part-time at Birbeck University. Here she shares her story and why she is so passionate about the campaign.

From psychosis to: Beth's story

From psychosis to: Danni's story

Danni, 26, lives in Dorset, where she works for the NHS. Here she tells us more about her first experience of psychosis, and how opening up to a therapist led to ‘lifesaving’ treatment with the early intervention team.

"We need seamless links between mental & physical health care"

In this blog, Physical Activity Programme Manager Mel talks about the connection between mental and physical health and what needs to change to better support people severely affected by mental illness.

Building communities that care – our plans for 2022

CEO Mark Winstanley shares plans for what is a very special year for us as a charity. We're marking half a century of supporting people living with mental illness and their carers.

"We need different things to thrive and blossom" - Laura's story

Thirty-one year old Laura describes living with bipolar disorder and emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) as like “being on a carousel while riding on a rollercoaster at the same time”, but explains how gardening helps to soothe her soul.

Kathryn Tyson - Chair’s New Year message

In this blog, our new chair, Kathryn Tyson, talks about her experience in the mental health community and shares with us her priorities in what will be a pivotal 50th anniversary year for the charity.

Skateboarding helps me manage my bipolar - Amber's story

After being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Amber decided to take some time away from her job and focus on herself. During this time, she decided to take on a new challenge: skateboarding. It’s not the easiest sport to get the hang of, but she hasn’t looked back since starting and now you’ll find her taking on 8ft skate ramps like a pro.

Tips for coping with our second Covid-19 Christmas

As thoughts turn to a second festive season under the pandemic, Peer from our Digital team shares his tips for coping with our second Covid-19 Christmas.

We can celebrate Seni’s Law, but the fight for justice isn’t over

After years of campaigning, Seni’s Law was enacted on 7 December 2021. Our Policy Manager, Will Johnstone, talks about the journey to getting the law passed, the difference we hope it can make in mental health units and how this is just the beginning for making services more safe – particularly for people from Black backgrounds.

A wake-up call on mental health within the criminal justice system

Our Associate Director for Criminal Justice & Mental Health Navigation Services, Jonathan Munro, talks us through a recent report which reviewed the criminal justice system for those of us who experience mental health conditions.

Talking openly has helped us to cope: Bren's story

How do you cope when both you and your partner have severe depression? Bren, now in her 70s, explains that talking about their ‘bad days’ has meant her relationship has happily lasted 20 years (and counting).

Q&A with 2021 Janey Award Winner Nkasi Stoll

Each year, at our Members' Day, we pick out some of the amazing work done by our supporters and commend them for the difference they’ve made to the lives of people severely affected by mental illness. This Q&A is shining the spotlight on the winner of our Janey Antoniou award, Nkasi Stoll. We caught up with Nkasi to find out a bit more about the inspiring work she’s been doing over the last 12 months.

"Systemic inequalities” – why it is so important for us to run dedicated BAME services

We spoke to colleagues in our dedicated Black Asian and Minoritised Ethnic (BAME) support services in Bristol and Kent about racism in the mental health system and why it is so important to have dedicated services for people from ethnic minorities.

Navigating the benefits system: Linda's story

Despite striving to work when she can, Linda's diagnoses of bipolar disorder, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder have led to her not being well enough to work. Accessing benefits has been a necessity to get by, but the tricky system has often exacerbated the symptoms of her mental illness rather than easing her money worries. Here's her story.

Feeling isolated working from home? We’re alone in this together

Like many of us, 38 year old author and writer Naomi wished she could work from home. Then the pandemic hit. Nineteen months later, she is trying hard to combat depression and challenge the notion that working remotely doesn’t mean you have to be remote.

Amy's fundraising journey - John O’Groats to Land’s End

After receiving what she described as "life-saving" support and advocacy from our Survivors of Suicide (SOS) service in Brighton & Hove, Amy is taking on a whopping 1000 mile run over five and a half weeks to raise money for Rethink Mental Illness. We caught up with her to find out a bit more about how she's feeling for the challenge and why exactly she decided to support us...

OCD is not an adjective or a quirk, so let’s all stop using it as one.

There’s a common misconception that Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves being excessively tidy or being keen on straight lines or patterns. Amanda,  a 28 year old working in medical research, explodes the myth around this debilitating condition and explains that it’s time to change this frustrating narrative.

Supported Housing: A Success Story

Beth (not her real name) has a diagnosis of unspecified nonorganic psychosis. She joined a Rethink Mental Illness Supported Housing service for support in feeling more independent in her finances and work. Here’s one of our frontline Supported Housing workers explaining the journey she went on whilst at the service.

If trauma can be passed down through generations, so can joy

Psychotherapist and author Lola Jaye explains that although the issue of racism is more embedded in society’s consciousness, the effects of historical and systemic racism are still having far-reaching effects on the mental health of Black people.

Jasveen's fundraising journey: The London Marathon

We’re more excited than ever to have challenge events back in the calendar. One of our 2021 London Marathon runners, Jasveen, has agreed to take the time out of her busy training schedule to let us know how she’s getting on!

"Be kind to others as not every struggle is visible": Harriet's story

Harriet’s battle with depression, anxiety and irrational thoughts left her feeling suicidal, but talking to family, friends and her therapist has helped her gain the strength to help raise awareness about serious mental health issues.

Fiona's story: "The more they know, the more they can help"

While the conversation about mental health has moved at pace in recent years, the discussion about suicide and suicidal thoughts still remains a taboo subject. In this blog for World Suicide Prevention Day, Fiona discusses her own experiences and offers some tips on how to talk openly about this difficult subject.

Putting coproduction at the heart of our suicide prevention services

Rethink Mental Illness are very proud to be working across NW London to develop a multi-agency suicide prevention plan, rollout suicide awareness training for professionals and implement innovative projects and pilots for the local population. NW London has a diverse local population of over 2.4 million and there is much suicide prevention activity already underway.

A day in the life of a Mental Health Breathing Space debt adviser

No day is the same and every client has their own story to tell. Being in a client-led advice role has been satisfying and inspiring. Read more about a day in the life of a Breathing Space debt adviser.

How your experiences of the welfare system can help to change it

Policy and Research Officer Eva Bell explains what the new Health and Disability Green Paper and National Disability Strategy are, how they affect people living with mental illness, and what you can do to get involved.

“Not everyone will fit into a ‘box’": Jemma’s story

Jemma has come a long way in the last 10 years. Top GCSEs, great A-Level results, a First Class university degree and now working two jobs is quite an achievement. Learning how to manage the symptoms of psychosis during this time has not been easy, but she is determined in her belief that everyone experiencing mental illness can lead a fulfilling life with the correct support.

The voice of lived experience in the Mental Health Act White Paper

Early in 2021, Rethink Mental Illness were pleased to be commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care to undertake engagement with two distinct groups of people, in order to feed into the Mental Health Act White Paper. Our Policy Manager, Will Johnstone, explains a bit more about what this engagement found and what impact it could have on the White Paper.

Mental health advice for my younger, LGBT+ self

We asked three people to send some advice to their younger self about how to manage your mental health as part of the LGBT+ community. Here's what they said.

Feeling the summer? Join our mental health festival!

In this blog, Bernice - the manager of our Step Up project, explains why this summer, we will be reaching out to young people and offering them a space to learn more about mental health and resilience.

Update on the new NHS digital scheme for collecting data from GPs

Earlier this year, the NHS announced it was changing how they collect patient information from GP surgeries in order to support health and care planning and research. This week, the government announced it was postponing the scheme.

Joy comes in the morning: Ashley's story

My name is Ashley, I am 24 years old and it has been three years since I experienced my first psychotic episode. At the time of my first episode, my diagnosis was psychosis with symptoms of schizophrenia. Then about two years after my first episode, I was diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Living with schizophrenia - Jamie's story

After being diagnosed with schizophrenia, Jamie tried to break out of a hospital by kicking down the doors. Since then, he has come a long way. Here's his story.

‘Freedom Day’: Liberating? Or challenging?

Restrictions, lockdowns and the fear of contracting Covid-19 have come together to create the perfect storm for a lot of us living with a mental illness. And just as we seemed to be settling into a new way of living, we’re now being asked to change back to the way everything once was. July 19 is being lauded as ‘Freedom Day’, but how liberating will it be for those of us that like routine, and struggle with change? 52-year-old Julian experiences depression, OCD and anxiety. Here’s his thoughts.

Health and Care Bill: Changing the shape of our health system

Today, MPs debate the principles of the Health and Care Bill in parliament. Our Policy Manager Lindsey Crawford sets out the main changes that this Bill will make, what this means for the support you receive, and what Rethink Mental Illness are doing to ensure that the Bill delivers the best possible outcomes for people severely affected by mental illness.

Navigating different spaces: Peter's story

Peter has been living with chronic depression and anxiety for almost 10 years. In this blog, he talks about his experiences as a member of the LGBT+ community and what impact those had on his mental health.

Social care: managing the nation's mental health

Mental health social care in England is facing a huge challenge which has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. In this blog, Alex from our campaigns team delves deeper into why mental health social care is so essential, and what we want the government to do to better support people severely affected by mental illness.

The new NHS Digital scheme for collecting data from GPs

The NHS is changing the way they collect patient information from GP surgeries to support health and care planning and research. The scheme aims to reduce work for GPs, giving them more time to treat and care for patients.

No one would ever know I was a carer unless I told them

If I had to summarise my experience of caring in one word, it would be this: guilt. I'm a carer for my brother, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia more than twenty years ago. His diagnosis had defined his life and, to a large extent, mine too.

Caring for Carers: The Carers Oxfordshire Service

For Carers Week 2021, we chat with Kay Francis from The Oxfordshire Carers Service about how her team is meeting the needs of carers in the local community.

Being a carer during the pandemic

Paul Marsh, 66 has been married to Julie, 62, for over 40 years. In the early years of their marriage, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Paul was working, and while his job was stressful, it meant he could support Julie and their young family.

"We are so grateful for our volunteers"

We hear from the amazing volunteers that make our work possible, about why they are involved with Rethink Mental Illness and what they get out of their time with us.

“BPD impacts my life in every way” – Gabby’s story

Upon finishing her degree at the University of Sheffield, Gabby is hoping to undertake campaign work to raise awareness and educate others about Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). In this blog, she tells us more about her experience of living with the condition and why it is so important to fight the stigma that surrounds it.

Our reaction to the 2021 Queen's speech

The Queen delivered her 67th Queen’s Speech this week to officially reopen Parliament and outline the government’s priorities for the year ahead.

Pandemic problems: Katie’s story

Like thousands of people living with mental illness, Katie’s life has been greatly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. As restrictions begin to ease further, Katie shares her story of living with a diagnosis of mixed personality disorder through the pandemic and how she feels looking to the future.

Hope in the Time of Psychosis: Jessica’s Story

Jessica tells us about her diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder and shares her story of finding hope whilst experiencing bouts of psychosis.

Chanté's story - Living with EUPD

Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD – also known as Borderline Personality Disorder) can affect how you cope with life, manage relationships, and feel emotionally. In this blog, 24-year-old Chanté talks about her experience of the condition and what steps she puts in place to help manage it.

Social media is far from perfect, but it's not the major cause of poor mental health outcomes

After an Oxford study found that there is minimal association between technology use and mental health issues, our Campaigns Officer, Kirsty Archer, went into more detail about what are some of the major causes of poor mental health outcomes.

Alice's Story - "No one should be given up on"

Alice is 44 and lives in Lancashire, with her cat. She has a close network of friends and speaks to them often. She also experiences schizoaffective disorder, which affects your mood and thoughts, and has symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This is Alice's story.

Hugely welcome, but the NHS is still to do all the heavy lifting.

Last weekend the government published its COVID-19 mental health and wellbeing recovery action plan. This document sets out the steps needed to prevent, mitigate and respond to the mental health impacts of the pandemic. This blog from our policy team takes an in-depth look at the plan and what this means for the NHS and for people using mental health services.

A ground breaking campaign that changed the mental health landscape

We're saying goodbye to Time to Change – the 15-year long anti-stigma campaign on mental health, which has transformed the way we think about mental health in England. Brian Dow, Deputy CEO of Rethink Mental Illness reflects on the amazing success of the campaign and how it started the nation talking.

Work, bipolar and me: Alice's story

Bipolar Affective Disorder is a mental illness, characterised by mood swings from manic highs to depressive lows. In this blog, Alice discusses the pros and cons of disclosing her condition in the workplace.

Budget: What does it mean for people living with mental illness?

Our Public Affairs and Stakeholder Manager, Tristan Westgate, goes through the government's Spring Budget for 2021 and presents the impact it will have on people severely affected by mental illness, mental health social care and the charity sector.

Reform in the midst of Covid-19: cause for cautious optimism?

Deputy CEO, Brian Dow, looks at the white paper in a bit more detail and outlines three things the government must remember when it comes to mental health care.

The Mental Health Act: Not perfect and in need of reform

Last week the government announced plans to update and modernise the Mental Health Act. In this blog, Ashley who is 23 years old and was diagnosed with psychosis discusses her experiences of being detained under the Mental Health Act and what changes she would like to see.

The Mental Health Act White Paper: a big step towards change

The government has published the Mental Health Act White Paper, setting out their plans to reform the Act. Our Social Policy Manager Will Johnstone highlights the key areas that the White Paper sets out to change and how it impacts people living with severe mental illness.

Five ways to get moving around the house

During the Covid-19 pandemic, there are plenty of ways to exercise without leaving the house: mowing the lawn, indoor sock golf and lots more!

How to support your wellbeing over the festive season

The pandemic has meant that 2020 has been a year of disruption and cancelled plans. In this blog we offer some advice about how we can support our mental wellbeing if we’ve found the latest round of news difficult to cope with.

Tips for a happier, Covid-secure Christmas.

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.

NHS Long Term Plan: the most important yet

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.

2020 – What happened and what next for mental health?

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.

Life after a breakdown: letting go of the reins

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.

The Spending Review 2020: your questions answered

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.

Streaming for Mental Health, Getting the Crew Back Together

Christopher Hough and five friends from around the world are taking part in a DJ marathon on the 28th November to raise money for Rethink Mental Illness. Here’s why the six friends chose to do it, and how you can get involved.

Current government guidance for being physically active

Our Physical Activity Programme Manager, Barry Lloyd, explains the current government guidance on being physically active during the second national Covid-19 lockdown. He also gives some top tips on different ways to keep moving.

We had a virtual chat with our MPs. Here's what happened

Our Oxford Campaigners Group co-ordinator, Frances, tells us more about how their meeting with MPs went and explains some advice she has for others thinking of doing the same.

Why our supported housing managers have written to their MPs

Our Head of Social Policy, Jonathan Moore, explains how crucial more funding is to the future of supported housing services.

Analysis: Annual statistics of detentions under the Mental Health Act

Policy Manager Will Johnstone analyses the latest figures around detentions under the Mental Health Act for 2019-2020.

The case for investment in supported housing is stronger than ever

As the Treasury considers its priorities for long term funding, the case for investment in mental health supported housing is stronger than ever.

“I was lucky, many are not.” – Simon Gray on surviving suicide

According to ONS figures, suicide is on the rise in England and Wales. That's why we've focused our fundraising appeal is for survivors of suicide. Donate so that we can help people like Simon, who explains his experience of suicide in this blog.

"I still don’t feel comfortable going out"

Hannah discusses how her recovery from Complex PTSD is on hold because of Covid-19, and the impact of increased loneliness and anxiety on her as a result of her having to shield.

BPD, Covid-19 and Me

2019 Janey Antoniou award winner Sue Wheatcroft explains what it's like to live with BPD, and the impact Covid-19 can have on how we view the condition.

How to manage feelings of anxiety from the ‘Better Health’ campaign

Expert by experience Hannah Lewis reflects on the recent government’s ‘Better Health’ campaign and provides advice on how to look after yourself if the campaign triggers any feelings of anxiety.

Life in Lockdown: Essex Advocacy Service

The pandemic has required many of our services to adapt quickly to lockdown, while still delivering vital support. Here's Craig from our Essex All Age Advocacy service, looking at some of the challenges they have faced as a service over the last six months - and how they have continued to support people in their community.

An update on the welfare system for people living with mental illness

A lot has changed in the welfare system over the last six months. Here, we explain what the changes mean for people living with mental illness, and how you can help us in our fight towards building a benefits system that works for people severely affected by mental illness.

Secure Care: Moving on in a pandemic

Covid-19 has affected people in secure services enormously. Here's a blog from someone about their life under lockdown and how it has affected her plans for moving on to live independently in the community.

How Covid-19 limited my access to mental health support

Our campaigner, Karen, spoke to a group of MPs about her experience of mental health services during lockdown. In this speech, she called on the government to act now to provide crucial extra funding so that experiences like hers never happen again. Here’s her powerful story.

5 ways to make carers visible

3 in 5 people will become a carer at some point in their lives and yet, for many, this role is one that goes without recognition or reward. If you are a carer or know someone who is, here are five simple ways you can help to make carers more visible.

Conquering Snowdon from home during lockdown

Hear how Kathryn and Matt took on the enormous task of running 88,250 steps - or 44 miles - indoors over 24 hours to fundraise for Rethink Mental Illness.

How lockdown saved my relationship with my family

Covid-19 has at the very least been a period of great uncertainty and anguish for everyone. But, for the Lopez family, this adversity has brought them closer together, and allowed Georgi to reconnect with her brother.

How our services are adapting to provide great care during Covid-19

It’s been a real inspiration to see how staff in our services and groups across the country have adapted during the Covid-19 pandemic to provide the best possible care. Here’s some examples.

How our services are providing social connections during Covid-19

It's difficult for anyone to uphold social connectedness right now. But some of our services have come up with great ways for people to continue to be in contact with friends and carers.

"You need to be kinder to yourself, Jonny"

Rethink Mental Illness ambassador Jonny Benjamin writes about how he has begun to understand the power of self-compassion and learned to live with his inner critic.

What impact has Covid-19 had on mental health services?

Our recent survey showed that Covid-19 has had a big impact on mental health services in England. But just how significant will that impact be? Alex, our Head of Campaigns and Public Affairs, takes a look.

5 ways to help create communities that care

Here's five things that you can do to help create communities that care for people living with mental illness.

Fifty years ago, our mission was born

This weekend, we mark the 50th anniversary of a newspaper article that changed the way society talks about mental illness and led to the creation of Rethink Mental Illness. We caught up our CEO Mark Winstanley to ask him about the changes we have seen and what challenges lie ahead.

A brother's view

As years passed, John became outwardly calmer, but the negative symptoms of his illness persisted. A neighbour described him as a  “gentle soul trying to live in a complicated world.”

The crucial role social care workers play has risen up the agenda, let’s make sure it stays there

We have to make sure that the recognition of the crucial role that social care – and its workforce – plays in keeping people safe and well is not lost after the coronavirus crisis.

5 ways to get involved in our Miles for Mental Health challenge

Our Miles for Mental Health challenge doesn't have to be about running. Barry, our Physical Activity Manager, lists five other ways that you can get involved - from gardening to cycling!

We face a mental health crisis – but can we come out of it stronger?

John F Kennedy said, “when written in Chinese the word ‘crisis’ is composed of two characters, one represents danger and the other represents opportunity”. As is often the case with good quotes, the truth does not quite match the rhetoric.

Coronavirus: Helpful online resources

In addition to the information we provide, public bodies such as Public Health England, and charities across the mental health sector have created helpful resources to support and protect people’s mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic. Here's our top picks:

Top tips on managing your mental health during Covid-19

Our supporters gave us their top tips on how to manage your mental health whilst enacting social distancing during Covid-19.

Managing your mental health during the Coronavirus outbreak

Over the last few weeks the media has been full of updates about the Coronavirus - from daily updates on the TV to hourly updates in your social media feeds. Peer from our Digital team looks at the simple steps you can take to look after your wellbeing.

Stop Benefit Deaths: our campaign calling for an independent inquiry

This week, Rethink Mental Illness launched Stop Benefit Deaths, a campaign calling for an independent inquiry into welfare related deaths. Danielle Hamm, our Associate Director for Campaigns and Policy explains more about the campaign.

Stop Benefit Deaths Campaign: Kelly's story

Kelly lives with Borderline Personality Disorder (also known as Emotionally Unstable Disorder) and is unable to work. She is on Universal Credit and awaiting a Personal Independence Payments (PIP) decision. As part of our Stop Benefit Deaths Campaign, she told us about how the process caused her to have a breakdown and suicidal thoughts.

My uni experience was moulded by mental illness: Rosie's Story

University can be a very difficult time. For a lot of people, living a completely new life is an exciting adventure. For others, it can be overwhelming. Meeting lots of new people, living in a new place and being given big projects to work on can be exhilarating, but it can also be exhausting.

Eating Disorders: "I felt powerless. Now I feel powerful"

For Eating Disorders Awareness Week, our amazing ambassador Juliette Burton talks through the reality of living with different eating disorders.

Life as a mature student: A second chance

University can be a very difficult time. For some, it is an exciting new adventure - a chance to reinvent. For others, it can be overwhelming. Meeting lots of new people, living in a new place and being given big projects to work on can be exhilarating, but it can also be exhausting.

Seasonal Affective Disorder: "I just wanted to hibernate"

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder? Read Abigail's story to understand how SAD can affect you, and how a diagnosis helped her to alleviate the symptoms.

Somerset to be a trailblazer for mental health care

A new alliance of charities has been formed to develop a bold new community-based mental health support service for Somerset residents.

“My diet was dictated by strict rules on food and exercise"

Jessica’s problems with her body image and academic pressure were a gradual process, and their beginnings are difficult to pinpoint.

The Rethink Mental Illness Moments of the Decade

The past decade has been a memorable one for the charity, here are our top moments.

Top moments of 2019 in Rethink Mental Illness services

We asked our colleagues in services, who work day-in-day-out to improve the lives of people affected by mental illness, for their highlights of the year.

Meet our 2019 Award Winners

Our annual Pringle and Janey awards recognise people and groups who have made a real difference to people severely affected by mental illness during the previous year and is just one of the highlights of our yearly member's event.

Meet Sue Wheatcroft, winner of the 2019 Janey Antoniou Award

Today, Saturday 9 October, we are please to announce Sue Wheatcroft as the winner of our 2019 Janey Antoniou award for 2019. Sue is a campaigner and group coordinator who lives with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Why we all need to talk about suicide prevention

Globally, someone loses their life to suicide every 40 seconds. Too many lives are destroyed by something so preventable. For this blog, Ida Väisänen recounts having it all – a dream job, a loving family and close friends – and yet, still feeling suicidal.

Luciana Berger: “Let’s take a zero-suicide approach and end suicide for good”

Suicide is the greatest killer of young men in our country, and the main cause of death for young people aged 15-29 worldwide, which is more than road traffic accidents, substance abuse or even warfare. In the UK, the rate of deaths by suicide among under 25s increased by 23.7%, reaching 730 deaths in 2018.

Schizophrenia is not a lifestyle choice

Schizophrenia affects one in 100 people - it's not as uncommon as you think.  In this special blog for Rethink Schizophrenia, Jane writes about the her experiences of the condition and her journey on the road to recovery.

I’ve been behaving a bit diabetic recently. I think it might be lack of sleep.

For almost fifty years we have campaigned for the rights of people severely affected by mental illness - and while public perceptions of conditions such as bipolar disorder and OCD have generally improved, understanding of schizophrenia has remained largely unchanged.

Brushing your teeth can seem more difficult than climbing Everest

In this special blog for Rethink Schizophrenia, Tom writes about how his symptoms can affect his daily life and how he is learning to manage his condition.

Blackpool's Mental Health Crisis

Googling ‘Blackpool’ and ‘mental health’ brings some quite stark results. A town in the throes of a seemingly intractable mental health crisis. Some of the highest suicide rates in the country and similar levels of depression, as well as a long list of other problems.

OCD and Me: Oli's Story

Thoughts…an assortment of feelings, urges and who knows what bubbling up to the surface of the conscious mind. I thought I could control them or rather that I was in control of them. But the naivety of this became starkly apparent to me when at the age of eighteen I had a Major Depressive episode.

Why some rules need to be followed

A report published earlier this week by the Care Quality Commission has found that people detained under the Mental Health Act often receive less than adequate care while in hospital.

Treatment far from home has become too common

New research published today by the BMA’s Doctor Magazine has added further evidence to the problem of out of area treatment in mental health rehabilitation services. The figures show that 2,600 out of area placements have been commissioned in the last 3 years. 140 patients were placed more than a 7 hour round trip from where they live. Many more were sent hundreds of miles from their home.

Reflections on Mental Health Awareness Week 2019

Last week was witness to a plethora of rich conversations led by the Mental Health Foundation about the intersection of body image and mental health. Hannah from our policy team reflects on how body image can impact people severely affected by mental illness and what we are doing about it…

Telling your partner you live with a mental illness

If you meet someone, when is the right time to disclose your illness? We asked mental health campaigner Ellie about when she first tackles that tricky conversation.

The NHS Long-term plan – what does it mean for you?

You might have seen the coverage today about £billions more for the NHS with a big focus on improving mental health services. But with people who are most ill waiting the longest for mental health treatments, will this new money stretch far enough to help those most in need?

Today marks one year since I last self-harmed

Our great friend and all-round great guy, Carl Burkitt, tells us about his experience of self-harm and how he learned to treat himself with compassion and understanding.

Being sectioned at 18: Degrading and life-saving

Most people remember their significant birthdays as a time of fun and enjoyment – but for actress & writer Juliette Burton, looking back on her 18th birthday brings back vivid memories of being detained under the Mental Health Act.