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2025 Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Check out what SAMHSA is doing, share our materials, and remember that we all play vital roles in caring for our mental health!

The Toolkit is a One-Stop Shop

The toolkit offers comprehensive resources in a central location that you can download and share. Some content can be customized for the needs of your audiences. The toolkit includes:

  • Key messages and themes for each week in May.
  • Social media content, graphics, and promotional materials designed for your audiences and media channels.
  • Messaging that encourages acceptance and support of people living with a mental illness.
  • Best practices for supportive and beneficial discussions about mental health.
  • Additional resources for increasing awareness about mental health in May and beyond.

How to Use the Toolkit

The toolkit can help you spread awareness about the importance of mental health and its effects on physical and emotional well-being.

  • Copy, download, and share our social messages, graphics, and promotional materials in ways that fit the needs of your audiences and channels.
  • Use our hashtags, including #MHAM2025, when sharing content related to Mental Health Awareness Month.
  • Use our tools and the actions recommended in Best Practices to engage with your communities and networks.

2025 Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit

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Overall Theme

Mental health is essential for overall well-being at every stage of life. Regardless of age, background, or experience, prioritizing mental health strengthens individuals, families, and communities.

The following key messages and weekly themes provide a foundation for developing messages and posts that resonate with your specific audiences throughout the month. Feel free to use these messages as well as the sample social media shareables in the toolkit.

Week 1: May 1-3 

Supporting Older Adults’ Mental Health

This week focuses on supporting the mental health needs of older adults.

Key messages:

As we age, we may experience life changes that impact our mental health.

  • Life changes in older adults can impact mental health, but help is always available.
  • Mental health conditions in older adults may present differently, such as through changes in interests or energy levels.
  • Open conversations about mental health can encourage older adults to seek support.
  • Mental health care can enhance quality of life, independence, and social connections.
  • Spending time with older adults fosters meaningful connections and well-being.

Week 2: May 4-10 

Building Strong Foundations for Children's Mental Health

This week highlights the importance of early mental health support, resilience, and self-care for children and teens.

Key messages:

Supportive families, communities, and resources help children lay the groundwork for lifelong well-being.

  • Supportive families, schools, and communities help children and teens build strong mental health.
  • Teaching coping skills early empowers young people to manage emotions and challenges.
  • Recognizing early signs of mental health concerns can lead to timely support and positive outcomes.
  • Open conversations about emotions help children develop resilience and feel safe seeking help.
  • Regular physical activity can help improve children’s mental health and enhance their well-being.
  • Many children face mental health challenges—early intervention and support can make a difference.

Week 3: May 11-17 

Hope and Support for Serious Mental Illness and Serious Emotional Disturbance

This week focuses on raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting recovery for people living with serious mental illness (SMI) or serious emotional disturbance (SED) and their families.

Key messages:

Support, understanding, and access to care help people with SMI or SED—and their families—pursue recovery and live meaningful lives.

  • People younger than 18 who have mental health conditions that severely affect their ability to function in school, family, or within the community are described as having SED.
  • Millions of people live with SMI or SED, but treatment and support can help them thrive.
  • Early diagnosis and continuous support help people with SMI manage symptoms and live enjoyable, productive lives.
  • People with conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and major depression can benefit from personalized care that helps them navigate challenges.
  • Coordinated care and strong community connections improve quality of life for people with SMI or SED. There is hope—many people with SMI are living, working, and flourishing in recovery.

Week 4: May 18-24 

The Connection Between Mental and Physical Health

This week explores how deeply connected mental and physical health are.

Key messages:

Mental and physical health are deeply connected—and integrated care for co-occurring conditions supports lifelong wellness.

  • Mental and physical health are equally important—taking care of one supports the other.
  • Depression and anxiety increase the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes.
  • Regular activity, good nutrition, and quality sleep support both mental and physical well-being.
  • Integrated treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions improves outcomes.
  • Preventive care, strong support networks, and early intervention promote lifelong wellness.

Week 5: May 25-31 

The Power of Community and Connection in Mental Health

This week focuses on the role of community, support networks, and recovery in promoting well-being.

Key messages:

Supportive relationships and connected communities foster a sense of belonging and promote mental well-being for all.

  • Strong mental health is for everyone—and support should be available to all.
  • Each person’s mental health journey is unique—a strong support system makes a difference.
  • Prioritizing self-care and seeking support strengthen resilience and well-being.
  • Social connection and community support play a vital role in mental health and recovery.
  • Open conversations about mental health help break stigma and encourage people to seek support.

Week 1: Older Adults

A young man and an older man talk on their phones to each other. Text: It’s okay to ask for help. You are not alone.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Sometimes life transitions can affect our well-being. Navigating these changes with resilience and grace is possible! 🧭⛵If you need someone to talk to, visit: samhsa.gov/find-support #MHAM2025 #MentalHealthAwareness

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 Week 1 - Post 1 (PNG | 80 KB)

Two older adults walk a dog, ride bicycles, and practice yoga. Text: Every journey is unique. Make it a healthy one!

Post Copy - All Platforms: A meaningful life is possible at any age. If you are experiencing changes in how you feel day to day, reach out to a professional, a family member, or a friend. Learn how to find help: findtreatment.gov #MHAM2025 #HealthyAging

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 Week 1 - Post 2 (PNG | 192 KB)

Two older adults sit on a swing. Text: Friendship is powerful at every age. Mental Health Awareness Month logo.

Post Copy - All Platforms: During #MHAM2025, ask an older friend or a loved one if you can join them in a favorite activity. 🏓🚶‍♀️‍➡️‍🎳 Remember—doing things WITH someone can be as important as doing things for someone. samhsa.gov/communities/older-adults #MentalHealthAwareness

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 Week 1 - Post 3 (PNG | 50 KB)

Animation, first screen: A pair of open hands frames spring leaves and flowers. Text: May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Second screen: An older woman sits on a Pilates ball and lifts hand weights. A standing, older man lifts hand weights. Text: Exercise is wellness. Third screen: Laughing faces of an older woman and older man. Text: Laughter is wellness. Fourth screen: Five older adults play cards at a table. Text: Friendship is wellness. Fifth screen: An older man meditates. Text: Meditation is wellness. Sixth screen: A pair of open hands frames spring leaves and flowers. Text: Mental health is wellness.

Post Copy - LinkedIn/Instagram/Facebook: Mental health care is a vital part of a wellness program for older adults. Focusing on emotional well-being alongside physical health can open doors to a brighter future. 🌞 samhsa.gov/communities/older-adults #MHAM2025 #MentalHealthAwareness #Wellness

Post Copy - X: Mental health care is a vital part of a #wellness program for older adults. A focus on emotional well-being can open doors to a brighter future. 🌞 samhsa.gov/resources-serving-older-adults #MHAM2025 #MentalHealthAwareness 

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 Week 1 - Post 4 (MP4 | 50 KB)

Week 2: Children and Teens

A mother and pre-teen daughter sit at a table and have a conversation. Text: Open conversations build trust and resiliency in kids and youth.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Face-to-face conversations can foster #mentalhealth development, enhance communication skills, and build confidence. 💪Talk to your children and teens about mental health. Need help getting started? samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone/helping-your-child #MHAM2025

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 Week 2 - Post 1 (PNG | 116 KB)

A mother and teenage daughter hug each other. Text: You play a role in your family’s mental health. Support. Understand. Nurture. Mental Health Awareness Month logo.

Post Copy - LinkedIn/Instagram/Facebook: DYK: Many mental health issues affecting adults start in childhood and adolescence. This Mental Health Awareness Month, learn how to support children of all ages and stages. To learn more: samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families/young-adults #MHAM2025 #MentalHealthMatters

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 Week 2 - Post 2 (PNG | 112 KB)

A mother cradles her baby. A smiling father sits with his toddler son on his knee. Text: You play a role in your family’s mental health. Support. Understand. Nurture. Mental Health Awareness Month logo.

Post Copy - X: Many mental health issues affecting adults start in childhood and adolescence. During #MHAM2025, learn how to support children of all ages and stages: samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families/young-adults #MentalHealthAwareness

Download & Share

 Week 2 - Post 3 (PNG | 99 KB)

Animation, first screen: An adult’s open hands cradle a child’s open hands. The child’s hands frame a heart. Text: Support your loved ones. Second screen, text: Know the signs of mental health concerns in children and youth. Third screen, text: Sleeping too much or too little. Talking about fears or worries. Change in eating habits. Fourth screen, text: Having frequent tantrums. Doing poorly in school. Having difficulty with friendships. Fifth screen, text: Losing interest in favorite activities. Engaging in self-harm, risky, or destructive behaviors. Talking about suicide.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Mental health issues are on the rise in young people. Pay attention to their social, emotional, and behavioral changes. Early support can help children thrive. samhsa.gov/mental-health #MHAM2025 #MentalHealthAwareness 

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 Week 2 - Post 4 (MP4 | 49 KB)

Week 3: Serious Mental Illnesses

A smiling, contented woman holds a mug and works on a laptop. Text: Serious mental illnesses include: Bipolar disorder. Major depressive disorder. Schizophrenia. People with serious mental illnesses can: Manage their conditions. Overcome challenges. Lead meaningful and productive lives.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Serious mental illness (#SMI) affects millions, yet stigma keeps many from seeking help. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Let’s make sure everyone gets support. Learn more: samhsa.gov/mental-health/serious-mental-illness/managing-life #EndtheStigma #MHAM2025

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 Week 3 - Post 1 (PNG | 86 KB)

Four people and a therapist sit at a group therapy session. Text: There is hope. There is help. Mental Health Awareness Month logo.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Living with a serious mental illness can be challenging, but no one has to face it alone. If you or someone you love needs help, visit: findtreatment.gov and 988lifeline.org

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 Week 3 - Post 2 (PNG | 55 KB)

A frowning woman is surrounded by icons of a question mark, a lightning bolt, an exclamation point, and a rain cloud. Text: Recognizing the signs of serious mental illness. Second screen: The woman meets with a therapist. The woman’s frown changes to a smile, and the icons change to a sun. Text: Recognizing the signs of serious mental illness is the first step to recovery.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Serious mental illness (#SMI) can impact mood, thoughts, and daily life. Recognizing the signs early can lead to better support and treatment. Learn more: samhsa.gov/mental-health/serious-mental-illness #MHAH2025 #MentalHealthAwareness  

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 Week 3 - Post 3 (MP4 | 48 KB)

Animation, first screen: An unsmiling woman with closed eyes holds her hand to her head. She looks burdened. Text: Serious mental illness can feel overwhelming. Second screen: The woman meets with a therapist. Text: But with the right care, understanding, and support. Third screen: The woman, now smiling, hugs herself. A sun appears next to her. Text: Recovery is possible. Everyone deserves the chance to live a meaningful life.

Post Copy - LinkedIn/Instagram/Facebook: Recovery is possible for those living with #SMIs. With the right resources, people can lead meaningful lives. samhsa.gov/find-support #MHAM2025 #Recovery #SupportMatters 

Post Copy - X: #Recovery is possible for those living with #SMIs. With the right resources, people can lead meaningful lives. Learn more: samhsa.gov/substance-use/recovery #MHAM2025 #SupportMatters

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 Week 3 - Post 4 (MP4 | 43 KB)

Week 4: How Physical Health, Co-occurring Disorders Affect Mental Health

A smiling man stands behind a smiling woman and embraces her. The woman holds the man’s embracing arms. Text: Be the light in someone’s dark moment. Mental Health Awareness Month logo.

Post Copy - LinkedIn/Instagram/Facebook: Physical challenges and serious health struggles in friends and family can impact their mental health. Although we might not be able to change someone’s illness, we can change how they experience it. During #MHAM2025, take the time to share a meal, take a walk, or just listen—it can make a world of difference. 🌎💖samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone

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 Week 4 - Post 1 (PNG | 47 KB)

A mother and her child sit on a couch. The young child has crossed arms and a worried expression. The mother reaches out to hold and console the child. Text: Be the light in someone’s dark moment.

Post Copy - X: Health challenges in friends and family can impact their mental well-being. This #MHAM2025, show up—share a meal, take a walk together, or simply listen. 💖 samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone

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 Week 4 - Post 2 (PNG | 46 KB)

Two people use their phones, and another person uses a laptop. Text: Mental health is for everyone. Don’t wait, take care of yours by getting the right help for your needs. You are not alone. Call or text 9 8 8 or chat 9 8 8 lifeline dot org.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Facing a serious illness can stir up a range of emotions. It’s crucial to seek support to navigate these challenges. If you need to talk to someone about your mental health, call or text #988Lifeline. They can help. 988lifeline.org

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 Week 4 - Post 3 (PNG | 38 KB)

A woman uses her laptop to interact with three different caregivers. Text: With integrated care, a more complete recovery is possible for people with co-occurring disorders.

Post Copy - All Platforms: People with both mental health and substance use disorders benefit from comprehensive support. Integrated care enhances outcomes and fosters a sense of community and belonging. Learn more: samhsa.gov/resource/ebp/integrated-models-behavioral-health-primary-care

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 Week 4 - Post 4 (PNG | 47 KB)

Animation, first screen: A woman in a meditation pose sits on a mat. Text: Small steps. Second screen: The woman types on a laptop at home. Text: Small steps. Third screen: The happy woman, with arms extended, jumps into the air. Two people behind her watch and smile. Text: Small steps. Big impact.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Managing a physical condition can be stressful, but small mental health check-ins—like deep breathing, 🧘 journaling, 📒 or reaching out to a friend📞can bring balance. Your well-being matters. #MHAM2025 #MentalhealthAwareness #SelfCare #Wellness

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 Week 4 - Post 5 (MP4 | 82 KB)

Animation: Separated puzzle pieces move together to form a heart: Text: Integrated care treats mental health and substance use disorders together, improving outcomes.

Post Copy - All Platforms: For people with both mental health and substance use disorders, navigating life can be challenging. With the right support and treatment, recovery is not just possible—it is within reach. findsupport.gov

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 Week 4 - Post 6 (MP4 | 318 KB)

Week 5: Community, Connectedness, Support, Recovery

Five smiling people stand in a row with their arms around the shoulders of the people next to them. Text: Celebrate the people and moments that nurture your well-being.

Post Copy - All Platforms: May is #MentalHealthAwareness Month—a great time to think about who makes your life meaningful, 🫶 who inspires you, 🤩 who sparks joy in your life. ✨ Find out more about taking care of your mind and body: samhsa.gov/find-support/how-to-cope #SelfCare #Wellness

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  Week 5 - Post 1 (PNG | 55 KB)

Three separated puzzle pieces are held near each other by three separate people. When put together, the pieces form a heart. Text: Helping others helps you. Build connections for better mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month logo.

Post Copy - LinkedIn/Instagram/Facebook: 🫶 Volunteering, helping a friend or neighbor, or teaching someone a new skill fosters a feeling of connection and is good for your mental health! During #MHAM2025 and beyond, make a difference in someone’s life. samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone

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  Week 5 - Post 2 (PNG | 40 KB)

Three volunteers help fill boxes of food. Text: Helping others helps you. Build connections for better mental health.

Post Copy - X: 🫶 Giving back is good for your #mentalhealth! Whether you volunteer, help a friend, or teach someone a new skill, acts of kindness create connections. samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone

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  Week 5 - Post 3 (PNG | 50 KB)

Animation: Four people, connected by a rope, climb a mountain. The leader on the rope places a flag at the top of the mountain. The third person on the rope waves, thumbs up, with both hands. Text: Let’s lift each other up and celebrate each step forward.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Whether it’s a kind word, a listening ear, or a smile, your encouragement can make all the difference to someone struggling with mental health issues. 🌻Learn more ways to help: samhsa.gov/find-support/helping-someone #MHAM2025 #MentalHealthAwareness

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  Week 5 - Post 4 (MP4 | 211 KB)

Two hands hold an envelope filled with flowers and marked with a heart. Text: Happy Mother’s Day! Thank you for everything you do!

Post Copy - All Platforms: Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms and mother figures in our lives! 💐Today we recognize all that you do for others and remind you that your well-being matters too! 💝 If you are struggling: findsupport.gov #SelfCare #HappyMothersDay

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  Mother's Day Post (PNG | 255 KB)

An American flag awareness ribbon appears above the text: Memorial Day. Remember and honor. Remembering their sacrifice. Supporting veterans. Get help by calling or texting 9 8 8 or chatting 9 8 8 lifeline dot org.

Post Copy - All Platforms: This Memorial Day, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. To veterans facing grief, crisis, or trauma—you are not alone. Support is available: 988lifeline.org/help-yourself/veterans #MemorialDay #SupportforVeterans

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  Memorial Day Post (PNG | 67 KB)

Hashtag Guidance

Use the following hashtags to tie Mental Health Awareness Month–related content together. Using these hashtags will serve as a unifying thread for social media content related to MHAM, making it easy for people to find and follow the conversations:

  • #MHAM2025 (primary hashtag)
  • #MentalHealthAwareness
  • #MentalHealthMatters
  • #SupportMatters
  • #SelfCare

Best Practices

  • Use the Key Messages: Please use the provided key messages in your content, such as reminding your followers that self-care is important for one’s mental health and that, when it comes to mental health, small actions (e.g., reaching out to a friend, sharing helpful resources) can have a big positive impact.
  • Incorporate the Weekly Themes: Each week of Mental Health Awareness Month has a different theme, and you can tailor your content accordingly. For example, during the first week, you can encourage your followers to talk about how to support mental health in older adults, and during Week 2, you can share tips and resources for parents and caregivers to support children.
  • Tag SAMHSA: Please tag us in your social media content to show your support and to potentially be reposted by SAMHSA.
  • Use the Hashtags: Please use the provided official hashtags, including #MHAM2025, #MentalHealthAwareness, #MentalHealthMatters, #SupportMatters, and #SelfCare. These hashtags will help promote SAMHSA’s key messages and make it easier for people to find and engage with the conversation.
  • Promote Resources: Please promote our resources to share important information about mental wellness and support for those experiencing or living with mental health problems.

SAMHSA has developed a conversation guide (PDF | 98 KB) to support a friend or loved one by providing them with access to services for mental health or substance use. This guide helps start conversations respectfully and helps guide the friend or loved one to resources that could help.

An additional resource for conversations is the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s (NAMI) Tips For How to Help a Person with Mental Illness.

Inclusive language matters:

Last Updated: 04/16/2025
Source: https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/mental-health-awareness-month/toolkit