Sign in

Rethink Mental Illness

@rethinkcharity.bsky.social
957 followers 120 following 299 posts

We are Rethink Mental Illness. It's our mission to create a society that truly cares for people severely affected by mental illness.

PostsRepliesMedia
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
For World Mental Health Day (WMHD) we want to shine a light on the reality of living with a mental illness. Let us know your answers in the comments and we'll pick our favourites to share on WMHD (10 October) 👇
A purple image with two speech bubbles at the top. Below them, white text reads: "What is one thing you want the world to know about living with a mental illness?" The phrases "one thing" and "mental illness" are highlighted in pink.
121
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Mental illness should be met with understanding, not judgement.
041
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Shaun was referred to Durham's IPS Employment Service in February. After working with our employment specialists and The Angel Trust, he accessed practical housing and employment support. He's now got a full-time job, a house and is feeling much more confident 👉 bit.ly/3UOtshB
I had no job, no house, was on the streets. I needed direction to sort my life out and create a better future for myself. I was referred to the IPS Employment Service in February, 2026. I’d recommend this service to anyone. I’ve now found employment and am in the process of getting my life on track. My Employment Specialist was really helpful – any support I needed, he would help me with it.
011
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
💜 Carly spoke to us about her brother's experience of living with schizophrenia, and why she chose to run the London Marathon to support the work of Rethink Mental Illness. Read her full blog 👉 bit.ly/4yylHuN
A card with a quote from Carly's blog about her brother's experience of schizophrenia. The quote reads: Stephen's journey with schizophrenia has been challenging for him and for those who love him. Yet when I think about my brother, I don't think first about his illness. I think about his kindness, his resilience and the courage he has shown throughout his life.
020
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Mike lives with bipolar disorder and volunteers for our Brent Mental Health Service as a Befriender. He spoke to us about how he supports people and the positive impact that has on his mental health. Feeling inspired? Take a look at our volunteering opportunities 👉 bit.ly/4cGCEuC
A quote written on a purple background. Quote reads: Being a Befriender puts a big spring in my step. There’s nothing more heartwarming than walking away from helping someone so selflessly. I just feel good in myself for having possibly helped somebody move a few steps forward in life. It’s nice to just shine a light in the dark.
010
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Our Surrey Support After Suicide and the Brighton Bereaved by Suicide services were named Specialist Grief Service of the Year at the London & Southeast Prestige Awards 2026/27. You can find out more about the award win, and our suicide bereavement services, on our website 👉 bit.ly/46WjwVT
A purple background with a title at the top that reads "Rethink Suicide Bereavement Services win prestigious award.

Underneath, an image of staff from the services accepting the trophy at an awards night.
030
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
This #WorldSuicidePreventionDay, we're here for you 💜
This image promotes World Suicide Prevention Day. It includes icons and text describing support for those bereaved by suicide, experiencing suicidal thoughts, struggling to express their feelings, supporting others, worrying about the future, and on waiting lists for support.
08968
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Everyone has a part to play in suicide prevention. Talking about suicide saves lives. So for #WorldSuicidePrevention Day, share this post. You never know who it might help 💜 More detailed guidance 👉 bit.ly/4tZGrJY
A poster titled "How to support someone who is feeling suicidal" lists six tips with icons: listen and be kind, do no try to fix things, stay connected until they're safe, ask about suicide directly, connect to help, stay connected, and follow up. A note at the bottom says World Suicide Prevention Day.
11110
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
The Nottingham Inquiry was established following the attacks carried out by Valdo Calocane in June 2023. Read our full statement on our website 👉 bit.ly/4xmcEfr
Title at the top reads: "As the Nottingham Inquiry concludes..." Words underneath say: Our thoughts remain with the families of Barnaby Webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar and Ian Coates, and with everyone affected by these devastating events. When the Inquiry reports, the focus must be on learning lessons, implementing recommendations and ensuring accountability for change. Good quality mental healthcare saves lives. It supports recovery, reduces risk and helps keep people and communities safe. The families affected by this tragedy, alongside patients, carers and the public, deserve confidence that when serious failings are identified, meaningful change follows. Head to our website to read our full response.
110
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
💜 There’s a lot to do. But, with your help, we will get there. Join us in our mission to create a society that truly cares for people severely affected by mental illness 👉 bit.ly/4oTZ6Fz
An infographic with a title at the top which reads "We can’t wait for the day when…" Underneath, six icons are accompanied by wording which reads: People living with mental illness get the right treatment at the right time. All mental health hospitals provide a place of safety, healing and recovery. Everyone living with mental illness has access to safe and secure housing. People living with mental illness don’t experience stigma at work. We have a compassionate social security system. Everyone living with mental illness has access to regular physical health checks.
060
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
Too often, people are only into mental health awareness until it involves dealing with the difficult symptoms caused by a severe mental illness. We want that to change.
061
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
💭 Know someone who has made a difference in the world of mental health? This is your chance to show the world the impact they've had. Nominate them for our prestigious Janey Antoniou Award. Find out more on our website 👉 bit.ly/4zQI7c4
Promotional image with a purple megaphone graphic. Text encourages nominations for the "Janey Antoniou Campaigner of the Year Award" for an outstanding mental health campaigner. Winner receives £1000.
042
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is meant to be a safety net that offers vital support for people living with mental illness. But for too many, the system is failing to deliver on that. Our Rethinking PIP report found these four key problems with the current system 👉 bit.ly/4vJ5To3
Blue background with text: "Four problems with the current PIP system." Four icons illustrate issues: "Assessors lack mental health expertise," "The process to apply is complex and harmful," "Fluctuating conditions are poorly understood," and "People get stuck in The Recovery Trap."
041
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
💜 Walking the dog. Cooking a nice meal. Catching up with a friend. Whatever you're up to this bank holiday weekend, we hope it brings you joy. From 5pm today, we won't be checking comments until Tuesday 1 September. If you need support in that time, here's where to turn.
Infographic titled 'Mental health support over the bank holiday?' suggests contacting NHS 111 for urgent mental health help. It promotes 'Shout' as a free, confidential 24/7 text messaging service at 85258, and 'Samaritans' as a 24/7 listening service, reachable at 116 123.
064
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 26/08/2026
You can't just 'snap out' of depression.
042
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
OCD is nothing to do with 'enjoying' cleaning.
020
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
For years, Georgie navigated the ups and downs of bipolar disorder without a diagnosis. After finding support through friends, therapy and our Advice & Information Service, she is in a much better place. Read her full story on our website 👉 bit.ly/4qijsc8
One of the hardest parts of bipolar disorder is how alien one state feels from the other. In a high, I can’t understand the heaviness of a low, even if it was only a week earlier. In a low, I can’t imagine ever feeling good again. It’s as if the world loses all colour and a negative inner voice takes control.
040
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Sending love to everyone who is affected by the death of Professor Jason Arday. If you want to talk to someone, our friends at the Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123.
We’re deeply saddened by the devastating death of Professor Jason Arday. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone affected by his death. We understand that many people will have found the intense media coverage and speculation surrounding Professor Arday’s death hugely distressing. This is particularly true for those of you who are autistic and/or from racialised communities. You are not alone. If you need to speak to someone, you can always turn to our friends at the Samaritans anytime 24/7.
010
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Depression can feel overwhelming, affecting our ability to do everyday things. It’s natural to want to help a loved one through something so difficult, even if it's hard to know where to start. Share this post to spread helpful ways to support someone. More information 👉 bit.ly/4gcBhVg
Image titled "How to help someone who is experiencing depression" with cartoon illustrations. Four tips: 1. Start with low-pressure communication, shown with two figures speaking. 2. Listen without trying to fix everything, illustrated with an ear. 3. Encourage enjoyable activities, depicted by a figure holding a film clapperboard and a jigsaw puzzle. 4. Encourage professional help, displayed with a smartphone icon.
082
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 14/08/2026
Since the government’s announcement last week, we've seen lots of questions about the community mental health centres. Head to our website to find out the answers 👉 bit.ly/4xLxVQt
Text on a blue background: "Imagine being able to walk in and get mental health support without a referral. That's the idea behind the government's new community mental health centres."
010
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
💜 Carers formed our charity over 50 years ago. They mean the world to us. If you help a friend or family member manage their mental health, you are a mental health carer. And you have the right to specialist support. Find out more on our website 👉 www.rethink.org/carershub
A graphical representation with the title "Unpaid mental health carers can...". Illustrations with text include: helping with tasks like shopping, cooking, or managing appointments; providing emotional support during crises; encouraging independence and self-care; working with professionals to meet loved ones' needs; listening and providing reassurance. A purple shape with scales illustrates the right to access specialist support.
041
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
⚠️ It could reach up to 38C this week. Reminder that SSRIs, SNRIs, mood stabilisers and antipsychotics can all affect our body's ability to regulate temperature. Take care in the heat.
063
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
🗣 LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE AT THE BACK 🗣 www.mirror.co.uk/news/politic...
mirror.co.uk
Voters say mental health support over benefit cuts to get youth back into work
EXCLUSIVE: The survey for More in Common found the most popular measure for getting young people with mental health conditions back into work is to increase access to support
010
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
No one should have to face mental illness alone.
Everyone severely affected by mental illness deserves the right treatment at the right time.
131
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
Everyone should be able to access mental health support in their local community, when and where they need it. We hope that the expansion of neighbourhood mental health centres can be a step towards making this a reality. There’s a long way to go. But this is encouraging news.
Breaking news - The government has announced the opening of 100 new neighbourhood mental health centres across England. But what are they and how can they help?
151
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is experienced by 1 in 50 people in the UK. Despite this, it continues to be highly stigmatised and misunderstood. Share this post so people get the facts on OCD symptoms and then find out more on our website 👉 bit.ly/4o87BLm
Image showing different aspects of OCD on a purple background. Top section reads "OCD can look like this" with icons and text: "Obsessive intrusive thoughts," "Compulsive behaviours or rituals," and "Unhelpful beliefs." Below, it reads "And like this..." with icons and text: "Symmetry and ordering," "Feeling like everything must be perfect," "Worrying about friendships or relationships," "Checking repeatedly," "Hoarding," and "Fear of contamination."
042
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
Gaps in your memory? Hallucinations? Unwanted flashbacks? If any of these signs sound familiar, you should seek support for your mental health. If you’re not sure where to start, our Advice Team might be able to help. You can speak to them on our website 👉 rethink.org/advice
An image of two actors, Matt Damon and Zendaya, from Christopher Nolan's blockbuster film Odyssey. An interpretation of the film is that Matt Damon's character, Odysseus is hallucinating and sees Zendaya appearing to him throughout the film as a mythical god, Athena. There is a theory that she is a manifestation of Odysseus’s intense guilt, trauma, and fractured conscience. The text on this image reads, "The impact of trauma on our mental health is not a new thing. It literally dates back thousands of years."
010
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
Panic attacks can be frightening and overwhelming, but it's important to remember that they will pass. Share this post so that people know how to support someone having a panic attack. Head to our website for more information 👉 bit.ly/4fogKOs
How to support someone having a panic attack. Top left: Two figures embrace with text "Acknowledge what they’re feeling." Top right: Figure breathing deeply with text "Help them focus on their breathing." Bottom left: Speech bubbles with question marks and text "Suggest trying grounding techniques." Bottom right: Two figures sitting together with text "Stay with them until it passes."
042
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 28/07/2026
🌡️ Amber health warnings are in place in parts of England as temperatures could go into the mid-30s over the next two days. Share this post so that anyone taking mental health medication can be aware of the difficulties they might face in the heat 💜 Find out more 👉 bit.ly/4etdnUw
Reminder notice about the effects of SSRIs, SNRIs, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics on the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Advises caution in the heat this week, accompanied by a warning symbol.
025
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 25/07/2026
We’ve worked for over 50 years trying to address the stigma surrounding schizophrenia. Yet there is still so much misunderstanding around the condition that people are asking these questions online. For #NSAD2026, you can find the answers on our website 👉 bit.ly/3zViRHh
The image is a purple poster by Rethink Mental Illness, featuring three speech bubbles with questions: "Can people living with schizophrenia drive?", "Can people living with schizophrenia feel love?", and "Is there schizophrenia support for families?" At the bottom, in smaller font, words read: These are real questions that are being asked online. Help us share the truth about schizophrenia.
031
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 25/07/2026
💜 These are the words of Oli, who has experienced schizophrenia since 2014. For National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, we're asking people to share the truth about this misunderstood condition. Will you join us? Read Oli's blog on our website 👉 bit.ly/4he0Ck3
Purple background with words over the top: Stigma remains one of the most painful aspects of living with schizophrenia. I’ve been called a “schizo” in passing by someone in an accident and emergency department. I’ve lost work opportunities once my diagnosis became known.
030
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 25/07/2026
Too often, schizophrenia is severely stigmatised and misunderstood. For National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, we're sharing the truth about what it means to live with this complex and debilitating condition. Join us. Head to our website to get the facts on schizophrenia 👉 bit.ly/4pC89ey
This image is a poster for National Schizophrenia Awareness Day. The text in the middle emphasizes that Rethink are thinking of anyone experiencing the challenges listed on the poster. It features six circular illustrations with brief descriptions: medication side effects, seeing things others don't, hearing voices, facing stigma, difficulty concentrating, and having no energy to face the day.
063
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
🗓️ On 25 July, it's National Schizophrenia Awareness Day. This year, we're fighting back against the stigma and misunderstanding that surrounds the condition. So, this Saturday, join us. Help us share the truth about schizophrenia 👉 bit.ly/3zViRHh
A purple background graphic promoting National Schizophrenia Awareness Day with the text: "Schizophrenia is surrounded by myths, fear and misinformation. For National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, we want that to change. On 25 July, join us." A call to action button reads, "Search for the truth." In the lower right, the Rethink Mental Illness logo is displayed.
051
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
No matter who the Prime Minister is, our mission stays the same 😤
Green background with purple words over the top that read: We'll never stop fighting for a mental health system that works for everyone.
052
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 17/07/2026
Leanne was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) in 2021. She writes about navigating work and relationships, how important dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) is for her, and the impact of stigma 👉 bit.ly/3R36nGx
While anxiety and depression are increasingly understood, personality disorders can still be misinterpreted as character flaws rather than what they are: complex trauma-rooted conditions involving emotional regulation and relational safety.
020
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
Dissociation can show up in lots of different ways and can be scary or confusing to go through. Share this post to raise awareness of what you can do to help. Find out more about dissociation on our website 👉 bit.ly/4wafPas
051
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 08/07/2026
Nobody should have to face mental illness alone.
020
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 03/07/2026
Our latest report, Rethinking PIP, shines a light on the reality of PIP for people living with mental health conditions. That includes the good, the bad, and the urgent need for change. Find out more 👉 bit.ly/4vJ5To3
Text on a light blue background reads: “Personal Independence Payment (PIP) massively helps with my quality of life. But the stress that comes with applying is overwhelming, often leading to sleepless nights and depression.” The phrases "helps with my quality of life" and "applying is overwhelming" are in bold.
031
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 27/06/2026
Kirsty spoke to us about living with complex post traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). After a six-year stay in a psychiatric hospital, she is now living independently and excited for the future. Read her full blog 👉 bit.ly/4v0yynt
Cover image with the text: "Kirsty's Story: Living with C-PTSD." Below it, a quote reads, "What I thought would be a short admission turned into six years." There is a small heart icon next to a house symbol at the bottom right corner.
040
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 27/06/2026
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex and debilitating mental illness. On #PTSDAwarenessDay, we're sending love to the millions who are impacted by it across the country. Head to our website to get the facts on this misunderstood condition 👉 bit.ly/4vqz4fc
A PTSD Awareness Day illustration with six labeled icons: a clock with a red needle (facing overwhelming flashbacks), a radar screen (on high alert or feeling under threat), a cloud with a face (experiencing dissociation), lit candles (feelings of shame or 'survivors guilt'), a moon among clouds (trouble sleeping because of unwanted memories), and a compass (navigating trauma effects). The centre text reads: "This PTSD Awareness Day, we’re sending love to anyone who..."
031
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 26/06/2026
Ahead of #PTSDAwarenessDay tomorrow, we’re raising awareness of the symptoms associated with this much misunderstood condition. Share this post so people get the truth on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Head to our website to find out more about support and treatment bit.ly/4vqz4fc
Illustration describing symptoms of PTSD. Top row includes icons for: Overwhelming flashbacks, Unwanted memories, Often feeling under threat. Bottom row includes icons for: Feeling numb, Avoidance of the trauma, Feelings of shame or 'survivors guilt', Problems with sleeping, Feeling worthless, Dissociation or disconnecting from others.
063
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 23/06/2026
⚠️ A red weather warning has been put in place for parts of England this week. 🌡️ Temperatures could reach 39 degrees. Please share this post so that anyone taking SSRIs or antipsychotic medication is aware of the difficulties they may face in the heat.
084
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 21/06/2026
For some people, Father's Day can bring up complicated feelings of worry or trauma. If you find today difficult, here's your reminder that you're not alone 💜
A purple heart and hand on a pink background with text underneath that reads: "Sending love to anyone who finds Father's Day tough."
052
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 18/06/2026
⚽ England scored their first goal(s) of the Men's World Cup last night. Here's a reminder of ours. Join us on the journey to achieving it 👉 bit.ly/4oTZ6Fz
Red words on a white background, which read: Our goal is a better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.
021
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 15/06/2026
😤 We won't stop until we have a mental health system that works for everyone, no matter where they live. If you want to join us in fighting for better support, head to our website 👉 www.rethink.org/get-involved
Words on a pink background: Fair, consistent mental health care should never be a postcode lottery.
010
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
💜 For #CarersWeek, we want that to change. Find out more on our website 👉 bit.ly/4vsC2iS
Text on a pink background reads, "Too often, our society does not care enough for mental health carers."
030
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 09/06/2026
For Carers Week, Rachel looks back on her mother’s journey with bipolar disorder and how that experience inspired her to create a supportive space for carers. Read the full blog on our website 👉 bit.ly/4ab5XEb
Text written on a light background: "Rachel's Story: Caring for my Mum during her journey with bipolar." Logos for Carers Week and Rethink Mental Illness are displayed. A trigger warning states: "Suicide attempt."
020
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
For #CarersWeek, we’re thinking of all the amazing people who support those of us living with mental illness when we are at our lowest. The friends. The family. The colleagues. To all the carers, we salute you. Thank you 💜
062
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 05/06/2026
Too often, people are only into mental health awareness until it involves dealing with the difficult symptoms caused by a severe mental illness. We want that to change.
022
Rethink Mental Illness @rethinkcharity.bsky.social · 02/06/2026
Everyone can feel anxious at times, but anxiety disorders can be severe and debilitating. If you're experiencing these symptoms often, and they're impacting your daily routine, you should seek support. Find out more about how to cope with anxiety on our website 👉 bit.ly/4nZgsQB
A series of illustrated figures depict symptoms of anxiety disorders: problems with sleep, stomach aches and sickness, feeling irritable, shaking, uncontrollable over-thinking, and changes in appetite. In the center, text states, "Everyone’s experience of anxiety disorders are different. Symptoms can include..." The illustration is signed ©ReflectionsMentalIllness.
033