Taking Action on Mental Health: Stories From Across Sainsbury's

We all have mental health, just as we have physical health. Small, everyday actions can help support mental wellbeing, and when people take action together, it helps to create a more supportive and inclusive culture where people feel able to speak up and access support. We asked some of our colleagues to reflect on the action they’ve taken on mental wellbeing, for themselves or for someone else.

Molly - Customer Experience Manager

I took an important step in my mental health journey by reaching out for support from professionals and learning not to be afraid to speak up. I made this decision because I wanted a better quality of life and to feel more positive day to day, rather than continuing to struggle in silence. Taking that action has had a genuinely positive impact, helping me feel more understood, supported, and in control of my wellbeing. My advice to anyone thinking about doing the same is simple: don’t hesitate to speak up — it takes real courage and strength, and it can make a huge difference. I chose to share my story because I don’t want others to feel like they’re alone, and I want people to understand how important it is to talk when you’re feeling down. Conversations around mental health matter because they help us support one another and realise that many of us can relate more than we think.

Gaz – Food Manager

Just over three-years ago my dad passed away after a twenty-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. After struggling for so many years, I knew I had to seek help which came in the form of support and medication - I understood that it was OK to feel the way I did.

You don’t really see it coming until it’s knocking on your door. However, to support me cope and heal I joined the Oswestry Men's Walking & Talking group - a community walk aimed at just men, giving them a safe space to open up and talk. Walking is a very key part of this, as being out in the fresh air and walking side by side with someone encourages conversation without the fear or anxiety of having to sit face-to-face and talk. I now lead the Oswestry group and really enjoy getting out and about every week to talk about absolutely anything with a great group of new friends - we also support other community groups through volunteering and helping with events. There are now over 85 Mens Walking & Talking groups across the UK with even more due to start up soon.

Walking to me is the best medicine for supporting you with your mental health. Fresh air and exercise is so important. I walk most evenings after a long day in work, and it really helps me switch off.

I share my experience in the hope that it helps others.

Laura - General Merchandise Manager

Take action; the smallest action can feel like the biggest one, just checking in, just listening, being present. My biggest struggle with my own mental health was six years ago; it was an incredibly dark time, and I couldn't see the way through it. After turning my life around, I felt empowered to want to support others. I returned to studying, to study mental health, counselling, and safeguarding. It has given me more of an understanding of myself and a completely different outlook on life. I will check in with my team, my colleagues, and my loved ones, because if they know they can come to talk to me about absolutely anything, it could be really significant for their mental health, even if others don't see it as a significant gesture. My advice to anyone wanting to take action for mental health: take the time to be kind and do something for yourself that makes you feel happy. It's so important we open up about mental health, and without judgment, because you just don't know what a person is dealing with. "In a world where you can be anything, be kind."