This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re celebrating something that makes all the difference when it comes to our mental wellbeing: Community.

At AWARE NI, we see it every week. Whether through a support group, a book club, a sports team, or just a friendly chat, being part of a community helps people feel seen, heard, and less alone. We spoke to four inspiring members of our community who shared how connection has shaped their lives — and why community matters more than ever.

Raymond’s Story: Finding strength in being heard

For over 50 years, Raymond struggled with negative thoughts but didn’t seek help. “My mother always told me to get help, and it was only after her passing, in my early 50s, that I finally did,” he shares. His GP suggested an AWARE support group — but walking through the door wasn’t easy. “Another group member encouraged me to come in. If they hadn’t, I would’ve jumped back in the car and never returned.”

Nearly 11 years later, that first step still shapes his life. “Listening to others made me realise I wasn’t alone and that thousands of people feel the same.” Over time, the group became a space of connection and friendship. “We’re all on the same wavelength—there’s no judgement, and we’re all equal. I can share how I feel here in a way I haven’t been able to elsewhere.”

The group helps Raymond manage his mental wellbeing. “It brings me back up when I’m feeling low and keeps things manageable.” His message to anyone unsure about joining is simple: “You’re more than welcome here. A cup of tea, a chat, and knowing you’re not alone can make your problems feel lighter.”

Cherry's Story: Finding purpose through giving back

Cherry is a facilitator for AWARE NI’s support group in North Belfast. When Cherry was first diagnosed with depression, she felt isolated. “I truly thought that nobody else could have the same distorted thoughts that I was having or feel the same anxiety I felt,” she says. But discovering peer support groups changed everything. “It was a relief to know that I wasn’t alone. The support groups embody that sense of ‘we’ve all been there; we understand’ — and that’s why I became a facilitator.”

For Cherry, holding space each week is about more than just listening. “It is a reciprocal relationship between facilitator and group members. I frequently learn something new each week that I can take away and use to support my own mental health. There can be humour in the sharing, and empathy when someone is dealing with a raw emotion. Everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”

She describes the group as a unique community. “Group members often say that being with their peers in an AWARE group can make them feel more connected to each other than they feel with their families or friends. In a peer support group, people feel as though they are in a closely knit community of their own.” Her advice to anyone unsure about joining a group is simple: “Just come and listen — you don’t have to speak if you don’t feel ready. Give it a few visits before you decide it’s not for you.”

Lewis' Story: Friendship built one mile at a time

Lewis is a loyal member of Boundary Brewing Running Club in East Belfast, where weekly runs finish with a chat and a beer at the taproom.

For Lewis, mental health is deeply personal. “The state of our own mental health dictates our entire world view and experience,” he says. After his family faced a mental health crisis in 2023, he learned two key things: “We are naturally very resilient as humans, and even more so when we support each other through that challenge. And we are never alone – crises like the one we faced are far more common than we realise.”

He’s found community and connection through Boundary Brewing Running Club in East Belfast. “There are no miles that pass or feel easier than miles shared,” he says. “It’s a cheat code to build in accountability and motivation, knowing your friends & family will be there.”

When Lewis ran from Belfast to Dublin, the club’s support spurred him on. “The whole club really got behind me, and it helped massively knowing I had that extra support.”

For Lewis, moving together makes space for openness. “Exercising and being outdoors tends to open up your mind and add more fluidity to thoughts. I find I do my best thinking on a run.” His advice to anyone hesitant to join a group? “Everyone has been in the same place as you. Try bringing a friend or family member with you. Once you make the first step, you tend to stick.”

Courtney's Story: Creating space for women to connect

Courtney founded Belfast Girl Gang in September 2020 after feeling the isolation of lockdown and the challenges of making friends as an adult. “We created a space to do just that—make new friends,” she says. What started as a way to combat isolation has blossomed into a community of like-minded women and non-binary people, united by a shared love for reading and connection.

For Courtney, the impact of this community on her own mental health is clear. “I always leave feeling like my cup is full and really positive,” she shares. “You get this rush of positive emotions that sets you up for the rest of the weekend.” The group has become a source of strength for many members, with conversations around mental health happening naturally within the safe and welcoming space.

Courtney believes that simple acts like reading together or sharing a cup of tea foster deep connections. “It’s the small things that are so powerful,” she says. The group has helped members form lifelong friendships, and Courtney encourages anyone feeling lonely to find their own community. “You’re not weird or abnormal for finding it hard to make new friends as an adult. So many people feel it—I’ve felt it.", she adds. “Don’t be afraid to try a few new things out to find what suits you best.”

Why Community Matters

Whether it’s through sport, hobbies, volunteering, or peer support, community gives meaning to life’s challenges and celebrations.

At AWARE NI, we harness the power of community every week through our free support groups and mental health programmes across Northern Ireland.

If you’re looking for connection, understanding, or simply a space to be heard, we’re here for you.

Click here to explore our support services or here to explore our wellbeing programmes.

And if you believe in the power of community like we do, please consider supporting our work.

Click here to support our work

Together, we can make sure no one has to face mental health challenges alone