Mental Health Awareness Day: Access to Support in Times of Crisis

At Cyfannol Women’s Aid, we know how critical emotional and psychological support is for anyone affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence. Experiences of abuse don’t just leave physical scars they deeply affect wellbeing, self-esteem, and the ability to feel safe in daily life. For many individuals, the journey toward healing is long, and having access to the right support at the right time can make all the difference.

This year, the World Federation for Mental Health has highlighted the theme “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” for World Mental Health Day. It is a timely reminder that crises whether they take the form of global events such as pandemics and natural disasters, or deeply personal emergencies such as sudden loss, trauma, or displacement can create additional barriers for people seeking help. In these moments, when life feels most unstable, support services are often needed most urgently, yet they can be the hardest to access.

For individuals affected of domestic abuse and sexual violence, emergencies amplify challenges that are already incredibly difficult. Fear, isolation, and uncertainty can feel overwhelming, particularly when familiar support networks are disrupted or when it becomes harder to reach safe services. This is why accessible, trauma-informed, and compassionate care is not just important it is lifesaving.

At Cyfannol Women’s Aid, we work every day to break down these barriers. We provide safe spaces where individuals can feel heard and understood without judgement. Our teams offer both emotional support and practical assistance helping with everything from safety planning and housing to counselling and specialist advocacy. Every person who reaches out to us is met with dignity, respect, and care, because we know that healing begins when people feel safe enough to share their experiences.

Importantly, support is not only about addressing immediate crises. It is about creating the foundations for long-term recovery, stability, and hope. Trauma can have lasting impacts, but with the right guidance and care, people can rebuild their sense of self, regain confidence, and begin to thrive again. By ensuring that our services are consistently accessible, inclusive, and person-led, we aim to stand alongside people as they take steps toward rebuilding their lives.

On this World Mental Health Day, we reaffirm our commitment to making sure that nobody faces abuse, harm or violence alone, even in times of crisis. At Cyfannol Women’s Aid, we will continue to provide compassionate, accessible, and trauma-informed support to everyone who needs it because wellbeing and safety are central to resilience and healing.

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