World Mental Health Day – prioritising mental wellbeing in our communities 

World Mental Health Day 2025 is as annual event on 10 October 2025 that brings together organisations and communities around the world to raise awareness of mental health and advocate for a society where everyone feels supported, understood, and empowered to seek help when needed.

World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day is an opportunity  to talk about mental health and consider how, together, everyone can have better mental health.

By starting conversations — whether with a friend, colleague, or loved one — there is an opportunity to share personal experiences, offer support, and help connect people to the resources they need. Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a more compassionate and mentally healthy society.

Local Call to Action: Shropshire’s Mental Health Awareness Campaign 

This October, Shropshire Council continues its commitment to mental health by building on the momentum of last month’s suicide prevention campaign. The council is marking World Mental Health Day with a community-focused initiative that includes:

• A drop-in event with the Shropshire Mental Health Support Wellbeing Vehicle at Guildhall, Frankwell car park, on October 10 from 10am–12pm

• Ongoing promotion of the Orange Button Community Scheme, now one month old and growing across the region

• Market stalls and Talking Suicide Seminars: Ending Stigma Together offering  resources, and signposting throughout October and November.

World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health. The Shropshire Mental Health Support (MHS) Wellbeing Vehicle will be stationed at the Guildhall, Frankwell Carpark, from 10am to 12pm on Friday 10 October.

Just like last month’s event, this drop-in offers:

• A safe, confidential space to talk about mental health concerns
• Listening support from trained staff and volunteers
• Signposting to local and national services
• Free resources and wellbeing materials

Whether seeking help for yourself or someone else, everyone is welcome to stop by.

Elected Members visit the Shropshire MHS Wellbeing Vehicle on World Suicide Awareness Day, September 2025.

Orange Button Community Scheme – One Month On 

Since its launch on World Suicide Prevention Day, the Orange Button Community Scheme has grown across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin. The Orange Button is worn by individuals who have completed suicide prevention training and are:

• Comfortable talking about mental health and suicide
• Able to listen without judgment
• Equipped to guide others to support services

This initiative continues to build a visible network of approachable community members who can offer a listening ear and help others access the support they need.

The council is working to increase the number of Orange Button holders in Shropshire communities.

For more information on the scheme or how to get involved contact: orangebutton@shropshire.gov.uk 

Market Stalls: Mental Health Outreach Across Shropshire 

Throughout October and November, the Public Health Outreach Team will host market stalls across the county, offering:

• Mental health resources
• Signposting to services
• Information about the Orange Button Scheme

These stalls are open to all and designed to make mental health support more accessible in everyday spaces. The next stalls are at New Wharf Square, Ellesmere, on Tuesday 14 October and Shrewsbury Farmers Market on Friday 7 November.

Let’s Talk Mental Health – Ending stigma together 

Mental health conversations save lives. Whether you’re a resident, professional, or someone with lived experience, your voice matters.

In partnership with Shrewsbury Samaritans and Shropshire Council, a series of  free community seminars are currently taking place across October and November. Each seminar will explore how we can talk about suicide in a way that is compassionate, supportive, and stigma-breaking. Whether you’re a resident, professional, or someone affected by suicide, these events are open to all and designed to foster understanding and connection within our communities.

The next free events are at Ellesmere Town Hall on Tuesday 14 October 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm and Shrewsbury Guildhall, Frankwell Quay, on Friday 7 November from 3.00pm to 5.00pm.

Why mental health matters

World Mental Health Day is observed annually on 10 October and this year the council is encouraging communities across Shropshire to come together to promote mental wellbeing, reduce stigma, and highlight the support available for those struggling.

Mental health affects us all — and by talking openly, listening compassionately, and connecting people to support, we can build a healthier, more resilient Shropshire.

Support services

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:

• Samaritans – Call or text 116 123 (24/7) | Email: jo@samaritans.org

• Papyrus – For under 35s | Call 0800 068 4141 | Text 07860 039967

• Shropshire Mental Health Support – Visit shropshiremhs.com | Call 01743 368 647

• NHS 111 – Select the mental health option (24/7)

• Bereavement Support – Call 0345 678 9028

• Local & National Resources – Visit shropshire.gov.uk/mental-health
• Togetherall – you have FREE access to @togetherall – an anonymous, online peer support network, and you can join at togetherall.com

Final message

Mental health is everyone’s business. Every conversation, every moment of compassion, and every Orange Button worn helps build a community where mental wellbeing is prioritised and stigma is reduced.

Whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. Let’s support each other this #WorldMentalHealthDay.