31 mental health quotes that could help you find strength in dark times

The best mental health quotes remind us that we're not alone. And whether they're words of wisdom from a friend or a stranger on the internet, we can't underestimate their power. Sure, mental health quotes alone cannot fix the UK's growing mental health crisis – we need government funding, a shift in societal attitudes, and more research for that – but sometimes it's just about getting through the day. And there's nothing like repeating your favourite mental health mantra to get you there.

Today (10 October) is World Mental Health Day. For those who suffer with their mental health, it can sometimes take just a few words of comfort or encouragement to give that little boost, or strike a chord that can stop spiralling thoughts in their tracks. According to Mind, there are a lot of us out there: 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England, and 1 in 6 people report experiencing a common mental health problem (like anxiety and depression) in any given week in England.

While scrolling on social media can have its benefits and drawbacks for our mental health, many campaigners, experts, and advocates speak words of truth and strength that have inspired numerous people through their mental health quotes.

Read More

‘It’s like falling off a cliff': The real life impact of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria

For the many women silently grappling with the condition, it's an emotional earthquake.

By Anya Meyerowitz

Whether you struggle with your mental health or not, these quotes and anecdotes could be helpful in helping those with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues, too.

And while it's recommended to do your research before actioning mental health advice from social media therapists (there are many wonderful, accredited experts out there, but everyone's mental health is nuanced, of course) – there are a number of posts that have particularly resonated with those who are struggling, and might just provide that little lift you need today. Here are some of our favourite mental health quotes to help you along…

1. The Holistic Psychologist

Dr Nicole LePera is like that older sister who always seems to know exactly what to say. It's the reason why her book, How To Do The Work is an international bestseller.

2. Charlie Mackesy

Charlie Mackesy's book The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse became an instant bestseller after it was released in 2019, and the author regularly posts uplifting quotes with stunning illustrations to his Instagram.

3. Self-care is for everyone

With 1M Instagram followers, @selfcareisforeveryone prides itself on normalising mental health conversations. The store is worth checking out, too, as 10% of net profits go towards suicide prevention.

4. Ruby Alice Rose

An illustrator from New Zealand, Ruby Alice Rose's quips and quotes sit on gorgeously drawn backgrounds that you'll want to print and hang everywhere.

5. Sunny Bloom Inspiration

If you're a fan of quotes that help shift your mindset from negative to positive, give @sunnybloominspiration a follow.

6. Matt Haig

Matt Haig, author of Reasons To Stay Alive, is open about his journey with depression and suicidal thoughts, often sharing inspiring reflections on his experiences on his Instagram page.

7. Anxiety Josh

Therapist Josh shares practical, actionable and encouraging advice for those that suffer with anxiety and panic attacks.

Read More

This is what it's like to have panic disorder (and no, it's not the same as generalised anxiety disorder)

I could have a panic attack at any time, for any reason.

By Fiona Ward

8. Laura Jane Illustrations

Laura shares illustrated quotes with positive, affirming messages.

9. Yung Pueblo

Writer and speaker Yung Pueblo talks regularly about nurturing relationships, self awareness and self healing.

10. Michell Clark

Michell shares powerful self-love affirmations which most of us can relate to!

11. Big Panda & Tiny Dragon, written by James Norbury

The beautifully illustrated book is full of poignant and meaningful passages that will resonate with many.

12. Rupi Kaur

Poet Rupi Kaur is full of inspiring and empowering quotes, often focused around self-esteem and self-worth.

13. Morgan Harper Nichols

Morgan Harper Nichols shares inspiring words about positivity and hope.

Read More

How to tell if your hangover anxiety could be a problem

And how to tell if it might be a problem. 

By Christina Stiehl

14. Bryony Gordon

Bryony is candid about her experiences with depression, alcoholism and eating disorders – her honest approach is real and reassuring.

15. Quotes by Christie

For those who find themselves ruminating over endless “what ifs”.

16. Seerut K. Chawla

Seerut is a welcome voice amongst the ‘Instatherapy’ community – the integrative psychotherapist and adds a healthy dose of reality to common advice regarding mental health.

17. All On The Board

The All On The Board Instagram account was born out of an idea from two inspiring London Underground employees, who began to write uplifting poems on a board in North Greenwich station. Head to the official Instagram account for a daily dose of positivity.

18. Calm

The Calm app is a great tool for mindfulness and self care, but its Instagram account also provides useful tools for worry and anxiety.

19. Make Daisy Chains

Hannah Daisy is an artist and an occupational therapist, posting empowering quotes and illustrations to her Instagram that centre around high-functioning mental health diagnoses, the queer experience and colourful real talk.

20. The Mind Geek

Sarah Crosby is an author and psychotherapist sharing her mental health advice and tips for positive wellbeing, with a particular focus on relationships and overcoming relationship trauma.

21. The Latest Kate

We're pretty certain that the only thing that could make an encouraging mental health quote better would be the addition of a cute animal. And Kate Allen's Instagram does just that. The artist combines colourful and cosy images of animals alongside quotes on body positivity, self-care and advice for anyone going through a rough time.

22. Mentl Sesh

Packed with great tips, journal prompts and pointers for dealing with mental health, this therapist-created account is designed specifically to help athletes and creatives manage their wellbeing, but the quotes apply to all of us.

23. Chloe Grace Laws

Chloe Laws writes and shares a lot of poetry around mental health. This one reminds us to let get of social anxiety and social media pressures.

24. @emotionalsupportlady

Looking to follow an account that's a hug-on-a-page? Look no further.

25. Amy McNee

Amy McNee of @inspiredtowrite posts a lot of content that makes people feel less alone, especially people pursuing creative passions.

26. Affirmations

Looking for some daily affirmations to help with your mental health journey? This namesake account, with 1M followers, is the perfect place to start.

27. Let's Talk About Mental Health

Let's Talk About Mental Health offers up a feed of simple, straight-forward, no-nonsense mental health mantras that will help you see your relationship to your mind in a new, clearer way.

28. 1 in 4 Project

With 1 in 4 people struggling with mental health, the 1 in 4 Project's Instagram account offers up a variety of quotes, mantras and statistics to help spread awareness about the cause.

29. Dear My Anxiety

Run by mental health advocate Stefania Rossi, Dear My Anxiety is a soothing account filled with positive quotes related to anxiety.

30. Sad Girls Club

This uplifting account is for the Sad Girls Club non-profit, dedicated to “destigmatising mental illness for millennial and Gen Z women, girls, and femmes of colour.”

31. Allira Potter

Allira Potter is a wellness coach whose account offers tips, tricks and quotes for people looking to boost their mental and physical health.

If you are concerned about your mental health, it's always recommended to book an appointment with your GP to discuss diagnosis and treatment. You can find your local GP here.

Read More

How to support someone with suicidal thoughts

This Suicide Prevention Day, we are all challenged to change the narrative.

By Chloe Laws and Annabelle Spranklen