Tag Archives: Support Networks

Black Storytelling, Real Healing: Inside Think Tenacity’s Mental Health Awareness Week Event

By Matthew McKenzie, carer activist
Date: May 24, 2025

In an evening charged with truth, courage, and community spirit, Think Tenacity Academy CIC hosted one of the most impactful events of Mental Health Awareness Week 2025. Held at Think Tenacity HQ in Vauxhall and themed #BlackStorytellingCommunity, the gathering was more than a panel or workshop, it was a safe space for healing through shared experience.

The event was led by Bella Rareworld, Think Tenacity’s CEO and a mental health advocate living with bipolar disorder, the event was built on a legacy of ancestral wisdom: “Before slavery, social media, or podcasts, we passed on strength and knowledge through storytelling,” she reminded the audience. “Tonight, we reclaim that legacy not just to speak, but to heal, empower, and connect.”

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Mental Health Awareness Week 2025: The Power of Community

The Power of Community in Mental Health: Reflections on Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

By Matthew McKenzie

Mental health is a universal concern, touching every life in profound and personal ways. As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, the spotlight turns to a theme that is both timeless and urgently relevant: community. In a world where isolation and disconnection are increasingly common, the bonds we share with others, whether family, friends, neighbors, or online networks it can be the difference between despair and hope, between struggle and resilience.

You can watch the awareness video below.

This article explores the vital role of community in mental health, the challenges many face in accessing supportive spaces, and the collective actions we can take to ensure no mind is left behind.

Understanding Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

A Tradition of Advocacy and Reflection

For over two decades, Mental Health Awareness Week has been a cornerstone of advocacy in the UK, led by organizations like the Mental Health Foundation. Each year, this week serves as a time for reflection, education, and action, encouraging individuals and communities to prioritize mental well-being.

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What to Expect from a mental health Care Plan as a Carer : Essential Information and Tips

Introduction

Supporting a loved one with mental illness can be challenging and demanding, especially for unpaid carers. Understanding the intricacies of care plans can make a significant difference in ensuring the well-being of both the carer and the person being cared for. In this article, we will delve into the essential elements of an effective mental health care plan, providing valuable guidance for carers.

To watch the lecture where the blog describes, see video below.

Understanding the Care Plan

A mental health care plan is a comprehensive document outlining specific strategies, treatments, and support systems to help manage the mental health of an individual.

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Making Time for Black Mental Health: A Recap of the Greenwich Event

On Thursday, 27th February, an impactful event titled “Making Time for Black Mental Health” took place at the Novotel Hotel in Greenwich.

The event aimed to provide a safe space for open discussions about black mental health, offering insights from experts, personal stories, and highlighting available support resources.

This event brought together professionals, community members, and individuals with lived experiences to share their thoughts on mental health in the black community, providing guidance on seeking help and breaking the stigma around mental well-being.

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Southwark & Lambeth carer forum update February 2025

Here is a brief update of the joint Southwark & Lambeth mental health carers forum I run the last monday of the month. The forum is a space for those caring for someone with mental ill health to connect and get updates from service providers.

As facilitator Matthew McKenzie emphasized the importance of managing guilt as a mental health carer, challenging unrealistic expectations, and setting boundaries for one’s own well-being. Matthew also stressed the need for self-care, seeking professional guidance, and advocating for respite care. The conversation ended with discussions on the concept of guilt, the challenges of being a carer, and strategies for holding care coordinators and social workers accountable.

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