Rethink Mental Illness

Rethink Mental Illness is a charity that believes a better life is possible for millions of people affected by mental illness. 40 years ago, one man bravely spoke about his family’s experiences of mental illness in a letter to the Times and in the process brought together hundreds to talk about their experiences of mental illness and support each other. Today we directly support almost 60,000 people every year across England to get through crises, to live independently and to realise they are not alone. Our website and helplines give information and advice to 500,000 more and we change policy for millions. We carry out research to make sure we really deliver results for people, young or old. Our services, support groups, and members cover every county in England, giving us local insight and helping us spread innovations nationally. All our work is governed by people who have lived through mental illness.

There are some things we offer that, put together, make us different from any other organisation. We offer…

Hope.
We know that mental illness does not have to mean the end of someone’s hopes and dreams. Every day we support people to realise their potential as we work to improve the lives of the millions affected by mental illness. We work with the different circumstances and goals of each individual, recognising people’s personal strengths and resources.

Understanding.
People affected by mental illness are at the heart of our organisation, in our governance, our membership, our workforce and in our campaigns. Through first hand knowledge and experiences, we understand the profound impact of mental illness, and the effects of stigma, myths and misconceptions about it.

Commitment.
We work hard, and for as long as we can, to provide help, support, services, information
and advice for people with mental illness, families, friends and carers. We provide a safe
space for all to share their experiences on what can be a long and difficult journey.

Expertise.
We focus on what works for people affected by mental illness, providing the support, treatments and practical solutions which get positive results. We will continue to build on our roots as the expert charity in terms of helping people affected by schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, clinical depression and other mental illnesses.

Passion.
We believe in the power of people speaking out to get better outcomes for everyone affected by mental illness. We are a collective voice for millions, fighting for people’s rights, promoting the reality about mental illness and raising awareness, challenging negative attitudes and campaigning for more effective care and support.