TikTok has launched a partnership with mental health charity Mind (@mindcharity) to launch the #SpeakYourMind challenge, encouraging people to share messages of positivity, solidarity, and support to one of their loved ones or someone they know, during Mental Health Awareness Week which starts today.

The partnership launches as millions of people turn to the platform for relief during the COVID-19 crisis. #MentalHealth videos have been viewed over 800m times on TikTok and monthly views are up 125%) since lockdown began. Users are also seeking out uplifting content, as monthly views of #Positivity content more than tripled (up 250%) in the month from 24 March – 24 April, compared to the previous month, and the overall number reached 1.2 billion.

Popular content includes Dr. Julie Smith’s (@drjuliesmith) #BreatheWithMe meditation series; and Michelle Elmans (@Scarrednotscared) body positivity and mental health content.

“This year is a Mental Health Awareness Week with a difference,” said Mind CEO, Paul Farmer. “Many of us are worried about coronavirus and how it will affect us and those we love, plus living in lockdown has left us without many of the things we value for our mental wellbeing.

“Our research has shown connecting with family and friends online has been one of the most common coping strategies during this difficult time. So with this in mind, we are very pleased TikTok are joining us to encourage people to speak their mind and share their stories, to help others see they are not alone in the challenges they are facing.

“We hope as many people as possible will join us and TikTok in sending a positive message to a family member, friend or someone in their life to mark Mental Health Awareness week as together, we can get through this.”