Labour calls for long-term mental health strategy for UK

The UK's Shadow Minister for Mental Health has told us she believes the government's response to the mental health impact of the pandemic does not go far enough.

Speaking to the #MentalHealthMonday Podcast, Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, who is also an A&E doctor, told us there needed to be a clear long-term strategy for tackling the issues that emerge over the coming weeks and months.

The Labour MP said: "Government are going to have to acknowledge there are going to be effects that go on for a significantly longer time to come. We know there are people suffering right now with things like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, but we also know that right now there are a lot of people running on adrenaline, they're trying to work out how to put food on the table, going to work every day and trying to stay strong for their families and it's exhausting."

Dr Rosena was critical of the government's response to a potential mental health crisis at the start of the pandemic, when her FOI requests revealed Ministers had only met with two mental health organisations in the first three months of lockdown.

Speaking to Senior Correspondent Mick Coyle she said now is the time to look at how to respond to issues that emerge even after a vaccine is found.

"It is often after a prolonged period of time that it becomes too much for people. They have chance to reflect on everything that's happened and they start to get depression and anxiety and it's really important that we take a super-forward-looking approach to mental health."

A DHSC spokesperson said:

“We recognise the impact this unprecedented period has had on people’s mental health and wellbeing.

“Even before the emergence of Covid-19 we announced plans to massively expand and transform mental health services, backed by the largest funding increase in NHS history.

“But this global pandemic requires even more support so we are investing £15 million to ensure all staff get rapid access to expanded mental health services.

“We are working with experts from the NHS and public health to assess what help and support people might need to maintain their mental health over the coming months and we will bring forward our winter plan for mental health and wellbeing shortly.”

Cross-Party talks?

The Minister for Mental Heath has, so far, refused to join cross-party talks to discuss the best ways for the nation to tackle the mental health impacts of the pandemic.

This back-and-forth from the House of Commons has been watched one million times on Twitter

Dr Rosena was asked what she would like to raise in those talks, if they took place.

Here's what she told us:

What help is currently available?

Speaking in September, Minister for Mental Health Nadine Dorries told us about resources that are available to guide people through difficulties caused by the pandemic.

She signposted to the Every Mind Matters website which has a wide range of advice and links to other services that may be useful to you or someone you know.

She also spoke of the importance of sleep, diet and regular exercise: "Physical exercise isn't just good for our physical health, I think we underestimate how good it is for our wellbeing and our mental health.

"People underestimate how difficult things are to deal with if you're not getting a good night's sleep. Get your eight hours sleep, and eat a good diet.

"Put those three things in place, they are your platform. Then go on Every Mind Matters.

"But, I will caveat that. If you find your feelings are getting worse, and they're dipping lower, then seek medical health and support." Listen to the full interview here

Where else can I get help?

There are a range of services across the country, both within the NHS and in the charity sector.

Please, do not suffer in silence.

To find the services close to you, type your postcode in The Hub of Hope

You can also text Shout to 85258 if you'd rather speak by text, or call the Samaritans on 116 123.

If someone's life is in immediate danger call 999.

NHS staff can call the Staff support line, operated by The Samaritans, on 0800 069 6222 or follow this link