World Mental Health Day
It reminds us why good mental health is so important, and how we can prioritise it in our lives and communities. It’s also a moment to talk openly and listen to what others are experiencing.
The theme for 2026 is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change”
At Healthwatch County Durham, we’ve worked to hear voices from our area who have been affected by mental health and the care they receive when accessing services.
Our Mental Health Transformation Evaluation published in February explored the experiences of people using and delivering community mental health services, highlighting the importance of accessible, joined up and person-centered support.
And in May, we examined people's experiences of mental health support, highlighting the value of listening to lived experience and providing consistent, ongoing care in a joint report with the local Healthwatch teams across the Tees Valley.
This World Mental Health Day, we will continue to listen and support better mental health together.
Find out more about the worldwide day of action on the World Federation of Mental Health website.