In 2021, we launched the first Mental Health Action Day calling for coordinated action among businesses, organizations, advocacy groups, schools, and individuals to shift the culture of mental health from awareness to action.
Now, in its fifth year, the Mental Health Action Network has grown to 2,700+ partners and millions of participants across more than 100 countries.
On Thursday, May 15, 2025, our collective call to action is to Check-In with A.S.K., the “stop, drop and roll” for providing emotional support to the people in our lives. When you check-in, here is how you A.S.K.:
• Acknowledge what they are going through
• Support by asking what they need
• Keep-in-touch to show you care
Most young people turn to a friend when struggling with their mental health. However, nearly 70% of young people say they don’t know what to say or do to help. That’s why Active Minds and MTV created A.S.K. – so everyone can feel confident helping a friend, colleague, or loved one. Now is the time to invest in mental health actions
Why Check-in with A.S.K.?
Connection is at the core of our mental health. In the midst of a loneliness and isolation epidemic, having the tools to support the people around you is more critical than ever. Anyone can use A.S.K. to help friends, colleagues, classmates, teammates, or family members who are going through a difficult time. Every partner has their own ability to drive change and support Mental Health Action Day in the way that works best for them. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. This is an open-source effort for all those who want to use their power and positioning to drive our culture from awareness to action.
Ideas to Empower Mental Health Actions
1. Introduce the new ‘Stop, Drop & Roll’ for mental health, A.S.K. - Acknowledge, Support, Keep in-Touch, and encourage everyone to A.S.K. a friend how they are doing.
2. Host an event, livestream, or fundraiser so individuals can connect, take legislative action, do yoga, play music, learn how to garden, etc.
3. Host a lunch with your students, friends or employees and provide the A.S.K. training or encourage them to check-in on someone during that time.
Why Check-in with A.S.K.?
Connection is at the core of our mental health. In the midst of a loneliness and isolation epidemic, having the tools to support the people around you is more critical than ever. Anyone can use A.S.K. to help friends, colleagues, classmates, teammates, or family members who are going through a difficult time. Every partner has their own ability to drive change and support Mental Health Action Day in the way that works best for them. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. This is an open-source effort for all those who want to use their power and positioning to drive our culture from awareness to action.
Ideas to Empower Mental Health Actions
1. Introduce the new ‘Stop, Drop & Roll’ for mental health, A.S.K. - Acknowledge, Support, Keep in-Touch, and encourage everyone to A.S.K. a friend how they are doing.
2. Host an event, livestream, or fundraiser so individuals can connect, take legislative action, do yoga, play music, learn how to garden, etc.
3. Host a lunch with your students, friends or employees and provide the A.S.K. training or encourage them to check-in on someone during that time.
4. Prompt your community to block time on their calendars on May 15th to check-in on someone they think could use support. 5. Provide free therapy sessions for individuals/ employees or circulate existing mental health programs at your workplace