We're supporting the Mental Health Foundation on Mental Health Awareness Week by celebrating the power and importance of community and how it supports our mental health and wellbeing. Communities connect, support, and give us a sense of belonging and purpose. From local to global, online to in-person, we all need community  - without community, there’s no mental health. We can’t afford to ignore it

Being part of a community can make life feel more meaningful and enjoyable, help us feel happier and safer, and improve our mental health. Yet sometimes, although we’re all part of communities, we don’t always realise the benefits for our mental health. Read on and flick through these links from the Mental Health Foundation about how community can support your mental health, along with tips on how to stay safe within online communities.

Why is community important?

A thriving society is built on strong communities: people coming together and offering each other a sense of belonging, safety, and support. When communities falter, people feel isolated and unsupported, especially during life’s toughest moments.

• Reducing and combatting loneliness

Regular social interactions, whether in a group, 1:1, online or in person, can help us feel less isolated and boost our wellbeing

• A sense of belonging

Pulling from above, having an established community, in whatever setting you’re comfortable with, will give you a sense of familiarity and belonging, helping to reduce anxiety and stress levels. A sense of belonging also brings in a feeling of comfort and safety, which humans naturally seek out.

• Boosting your mood

What’s that phrase, something along the lines of “I almost forgot this was the point of life”. Hanging out, socialising, linking up, whatever you call it - it brings joy, and undoubtedly boosts your mood. That feeling you get after seeing your family, friends, community - that’s what you need to hold close to you.

• Easing psychological distress and marginalisation

For many people who come from protected minority groups and high risk groups, a strong community is their lifeline. Communities can help from the emotional harm caused by marginalisation and discrimination. They help these groups build up their confidence, feel connected and offer them a safe and familiar place.

We thrive when we have strong connections with other people and supportive communities that remind us, we are not alone. Communities can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and give us a sense purpose. It might be the end of the year, but if you’re coming back to campus in September, why not try to find a new home and community with our Societies or Sports Clubs.

Staying Safe Within Online Communities

Tips on how to use online spaces to support our mental health, not harm it

Mental health and wellbeing

Here is a reminder of the University mental health and wellbeing support available:

• Student counselling, mental health and wellbeing service
• External helplines and support
• Emergency or crisis help

If you would prefer to access external help, here a few organisations that may be able to help:

External Support (Non-UCLan)

• The Haven offers a calm environment for anyone seeking emotional support and advice. Call 0300 008 3672 or email centrallancashirehaven@richmondfellowship.org.uk


• Mental Health Helpline on 0800 9154640 Mon - Friday 7pm-11pm, Sat-Sun 12-12 (The Helpline is a listening, information and emotional support service for those concerned about their own mental health, or that of someone they know.)
• NHS Non-Emergency Direct Line on 111
• The Samaritans on 116123 (No dial code required) or TEXT: 07725909090. Free 24-hour 7 days a week support.
• PAPYRUS HOPELine UK on 0800 068 41 41, TEXT: 07786 209697, email pat@papyrus-uk.org (HOPELineUK is a specialist telephone service staffed by trained professionals who give non-judgmental support, practical advice and information to Children, teenagers and young people up to the age of 35 who are worried about how they are feeling and to anyone who is concerned about a young person)
• SANEline Emotional support, information and guidance for people affected by mental illness, their families and carers. 0300 304 7000 (daily, 4.30pm to 10.30pm)


• No Panic on 0844967 4848 10am-10pm Everyday (help line is answered by trained volunteers to give out information, show empathy and support for people who suffer from Panic Attacks, Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and other related anxiety disorders.


• The Wellbeing & Mental Health Texting Service Text Hello to 07860 022846 (Mon - Fri 7pm - 11pm, Sat - Sun 12pm - 12 am) Providing emotional support to those who may prefer to communicate via text.