Mental wellbeing
Looking after your mental wellbeing can help you feel more positive and get more out of life. The NHS sets out five simple, evidence-based steps that can help.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 2 sources
At a glance
- Small everyday actions can support your mental wellbeing.
- The five steps are: connect, be active, learn, give and be mindful.
On this page (3 sections)
Overview
Mental wellbeing is about how you feel and cope day to day. The NHS suggests five evidence-based steps that can help you feel more positive: connect with other people, be physically active, learn new skills, give to others, and pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness) [1].
Putting it into practice
You do not have to do everything at once — even small steps can make a difference. If you are struggling with your mental health, you do not have to cope alone [1].
Getting urgent help
If you need urgent help with your mental health, you can call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option, or use 111 online [2]. You can also call the Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time, or Childline on 0800 1111 if you are under 19 [2]. If anyone’s life is at risk — for example through serious self-harm or an overdose — call 999 or go to A&E [2].
Sources
- NHS. 5 steps to mental wellbeing (opens in new tab) Last reviewed 16 December 2022. Accessed 12 August 2026.
- NHS. Where to get urgent help for mental health (opens in new tab) Last reviewed 26 April 2023. Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
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