The Power of Solidarity: Mental Health is a Collective Duty

World Mental Health Day 2025

By Bridget, SNS member

World mental health day, is a day to teach us that mental health affects everyone. Mental health is important, especially today in the UK. This day is a reminder that everyone deserves to feel safe, supported and respected, regardless of their ethnicity or where they come from.

At Sisters Not Strangers, our main commitment and campaign focus is the mental health and well-being of women who have fled persecution and are currently navigating the asylum system, as well as refugee women who are facing the heat of race-related hostility against migrants.

In the UK right now, many people are experiencing fear, anger and division. Increasing at an alarming rate is racism, hate crimes and resentment towards immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers. People who come to the UK for a better life, will most likely face judgement and discrimination, seriously affecting their mental health, making them feel like they don’t belong.

A divided community not only hurts immigrants, but the wider society itself. When communities are divided by race, religion or background, people begin to feel less valued and connected. These feelings can lead to stress, isolation and depression, but not only for those who are targeted: these negative aspects affect everyone. A country allows for more misunderstanding and hurt.

It is important to note that kindness and understanding, can make a major difference to someone’s life. When we listen to other people’s story, we help to create a thriving community where individuals can find comfort in, and feel that they are seen.

For many young people today, they can face racism and pressure online, where hate comments and cyber bullying can harm their wellbeing and self – esteem. Social media can spread negativity and false narratives about people from certain ethnicities. We must learn to stand up to hateful behaviour, and use our voices for spreading positivity.

World Mental Health Day reminds us that in times when many are struggling with the cost of living crisis, discrimination and loneliness, it is vital than ever to remember that mental health is a collective duty. When we stand up for each other, we can make the UK a stronger and fairer country.

This year, let the recognition of World Mental Health Day be more than just a passing moment; let it be the start of sustained, compassionate action. By choosing solidarity over division and kindness over cruelty, we can build a UK where every woman, regardless of her journey or background, finds the support and peace she deserves. We can cultivate communities defined not by fear, but by mutual respect and hope.

Tandarima, SNS member, a psychotherapist and Mindfulness teacher is sharing this message to mark World Mental Health Day 2025