With World Mental Health Day fast approaching (10 October 2026), new analysis of RedArc’s referral data reveals that, across the past five years, more people sought mental health support from the nurse-led support organisation during October than in any other month. The increase coincides with the heightened focus on mental health throughout October, suggesting that greater awareness and more open conversations may encourage more people to reach out for support.
Christine Husbands, Commercial Director at RedArc, said:
“We know that the more mental health is talked about, the more likely people are to feel able to ask for help. That’s why it’s so important to keep mental health firmly on the agenda – not just on World Mental Health Day and during October – but throughout the year. Promoting the support that’s available, talking openly about mental health, and helping to normalise those conversations can all make it easier for someone to take that first step and ask for help.”
During the past 5 years:
- Anxiety and stress (including panic disorders) is the condition for which most people sought support (44%)
- Depression and mood disorders are the next most referred mental health conditions (15%)
- Followed by PTSD and trauma (8%)
The importance of clinically led support
RedArc stressed the importance of ensuring people have access to clinically led mental health support. While some may seek help from RedArc with an existing diagnosis, many are unsure what is wrong or what support they need.
Rather than relying on self-diagnosis, specialist mental health clinicians can carry out structured assessments, including the PHQ-9 for depression and the GAD-7 for anxiety, to build a clear picture of an individual’s needs. This enables them to recommend the most appropriate support, ensuring people receive the right help at the right time.
Christine Husbands concluded:
“Raising awareness, particularly through campaigns such as World Mental Health Day, is incredibly important, but awareness alone isn’t enough. It has to be matched by access to the right support. Whether an individual has a diagnosed condition or simply knows they are struggling with their mental health, having access to experienced, clinically trained, mental health specialists who can assess their needs, understand what’s driving those symptoms and guide them to the most appropriate support can make all the difference. The sooner someone gets the right support, the sooner they can begin to recover.”
