WellSouth health promoter Jo O’Connor said she was excited about this year’s theme — "community is what we make it".
Research commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation found communities were the key to getting people through tough times, Mrs O’Connor said.
Connection was one of the five ways to wellbeing, along with keep learning; give — your time, words and presence; take notice of simple things that bring you joy; and be active, she said.
To help people feel connected in their community there will be activities and prompts during the week.
On Monday people will be encouraged to share acts of kindness, by helping someone in a small but meaningful way.
"For some people who live isolated lives it might be the only human connection they have that day," she said.
People can support a local business or organisation on Tuesday or get to know someone new in the community at a free yoga class at Flow Yoga in Alexandra on Thursday.
On Friday, Puna Rangatahi people are encouraged to stop and think about gratitude.
"Communities keep each other well ... There will never be enough services so it’s up to us to build up our communities."
- Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) is September 23-27. Find resources at mhaw.nz
