How Can Group Activities Help Support Mental Health Recovery?

So, what really helps when it comes to recovering your mental health?

With Mental Health Awareness Week shining a light on the power of community in 2025, it’s the perfect time to talk about something simple but incredibly effective – doing things together.

Group activities might not always get the spotlight, but for many people in recovery, they’re where the biggest breakthroughs happen. It’s not just about passing time, it’s about sharing laughs on a group walk, swapping stories over paintbrushes in an art class, or finding common ground in a passionate book discussion. These moments help build trust, lift moods, and remind us that we’re not alone in how we feel.

In this blog, we’ll look at why group activities are so valuable in mental health recovery, explore some ideas you can try, and share how to find (or even start!) a group in your local area.

Why Community Matters in Mental Health Recovery

Mental health struggles often come with feelings of isolation, shame, or disconnection and that’s where community comes into the recovery journey.

Being part of a group helps:

Combat loneliness by connecting with others

Provide a supportive environment where experiences can be shared

Reinforce positive routines and habits

Improve self-esteem through shared achievements

Offer peer encouragement and understanding that’s often hard to find elsewhere

Research from the Mental Health Foundation shows that people who feel more connected to their community report higher mental well-being, stronger resilience, and fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. In fact, people with strong social networks tend to experience less stress and are less likely to face mental health difficulties.

There’s even science behind it! Feeling a sense of belonging reduces our heart rate and activates areas of the brain that help us stay calm under pressure. This proves that in moments of stress, acknowledging connection can make all the difference.

The Best Types of Group Activities for Mental Health

Not all group activities are the same. After all, we all benefit from different hobbies, passions and challenges – that’s what makes finding new friends in new communities so exciting! The key is to find something that feels enjoyable and not too overwhelming, at least at first.

Here are some of the most effective group activities for mental health recovery:

Walking or Hiking Groups

Walking in nature with others is one of the easiest and most therapeutic ways to engage with your community. It offers gentle exercise, fresh air, and great conversation without having the pressure of sitting face-to-face.

Creative Arts Groups

Art therapy isn’t just for clinics – many community centres offer painting, crafting, writing, or music groups. Creating something in a non-judgmental space helps process emotions and express what words often can’t.

Support Circles or Peer Groups

Talking with others who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating. Peer support groups, often run by local charities or mental health organisations, offer safe spaces to share and listen.

Book Clubs or Discussion Groups

These offer structure and shared focus, which is great for people who struggle with concentration or social anxiety. They also allow for meaningful conversations without having to share personal experiences you may not be ready to share yet – or at all, which is also fine!

Volunteering Groups

Helping others can provide a sense of purpose. It can also be a non-threatening way to meet people while doing something meaningful together, like helping in a food bank, community garden, or charity shop.

Exercise or Yoga Classes

Physical activity releases endorphins that boost mood. Low-pressure classes like gentle yoga or beginner fitness can help build confidence while improving mental and physical well-being in the long run.

How to Find Group Activities in Your Local Community

Finding a group that suits you doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are some easy starting points:

Your local library or community centre: These often have noticeboards with events, clubs, or support groups.

Local Facebook groups or community forums: Search terms like “mental health groups”, “walking clubs”, or “community meet-ups”.

Meetup.com: A great site for finding both interest-based and wellness-based gatherings.

NHS and mental health charities: Look at websites like Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, or your local NHS trust’s community services.

Your GP or therapist: They can often signpost you to social prescribing or community support programmes.

Start small. Try attending one event, even if just for 30 minutes, and give yourself permission to leave early if needed.

Tips for Making Friends in Your Local Community

Joining a group is the first step, connecting with people is the next. While this might feel intimidating at first, especially during recovery, remember that many people are looking for moments of connection – just like you! Here are some tips:

Attend regularly: Familiar faces become easier to talk to over time.

Ask open questions: “How did you hear about this group?” or “Have you been coming long?” are great icebreakers.

Volunteer for small roles: Helping with setup or refreshments creates super easy conversation opportunities.

Use social media to follow up: Some groups have WhatsApp or Facebook groups for members.

Be patient and kind to yourself: Friendship takes time. Simply showing up is already a big win. Also remember that not everyone is meant to be friends with everyone, but at least you can say ‘hello’, make room, and be kind to everyone and let the potential for friendships blossom.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re beginning your mental health recovery journey or supporting someone on theirs, group activities can be a gentle, powerful tool for rebuilding connection and long-term confidence. In fact, the UK’s Community Life Survey found in 2021-2022 that individuals who regularly engage in group activities report higher levels of life satisfaction and reduced feelings of loneliness – all the more reason to get out in your community!

If you’re not sure where to begin, start by asking yourself: What activities might make me feel just 10% better? Write them down and you’ll start to shape an activity plan that’s unique to you.