Cygnet Group Launches Expert Guide to Support Mental Health Awareness Week

Leading health and social care company, Cygnet, which has four mental health hospitals and 12 care services in the South West, is urging people to take action this Mental Health Awareness week and protect their wellbeing in a world of constant news.

Cygnet has produced a free, practical guide that highlights how constant exposure to distressing news can affect mental health and offers practical steps to help people stay informed while also protecting their mental health.

The guide has been released ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 (11-17 May), which is focused on the theme “Take Action”, looking at what proactive steps individuals can take to promote good mental health.

Dr Erica De Lange, Regional Director of Psychology at Cygnet Health Care, explains how while staying informed is important, it shouldn’t come at the expense of your mental health.

She said: “Many people today feel surrounded by a constant stream of news about conflict, crises and global events. With TV, online news and social media delivering updates within seconds, it can be difficult to switch off.

“While staying informed is important, continuous exposure to upsetting or dramatic headlines can feel overwhelming. For many people, regularly absorbing this type of content can take a toll on emotional wellbeing if boundaries are not in place.

“It’s completely natural to feel concerned when hearing about distressing events. Empathy and awareness are important human responses. But when this becomes part of everyday life, it can create emotional and psychological strain and can lead to ‘headline anxiety’.”

The guide includes:

• Signs to look out for – including symptoms such as trouble sleeping, difficulty switching off, or feeling drained and anxious.
• Tips for staying informed while looking after your emotional wellbeing – such as setting boundaries for news consumption, taking breaks and maintaining health habits.
• Advice on how to support yourself – including talking to someone you trust, considering professional help, reducing exposure and practicing self-compassion.

Dr De Lange added: “By setting healthy boundaries, practising self‑care and reaching out for support when needed, you can stay connected to the world while protecting your wellbeing.

“Looking after your mental health is not about ignoring the world’s challenges, it is about ensuring you have the resilience and support needed to navigate them.”

You can read the guide for free on Cygnet’s website at Protecting Your Mental Health in a World of Constant News – Cygnet