Where to seek help if your mental health is suffering
People urged to sign-up for Talking Therapy, under the 'Help Us, Help You' NHS campaign
With coronavirus having a significant impact on the nation’s mental health, the NHS is urging anyone suffering to seek help, as part of its 'Help Us, Help You' campaign.
Over 2020, the nation's anxiety has increased, with around half of us reporting high levels at the start of lockdown, according to Office of National Statistics (ONS) data.
The figures also show that one in five adults were likely to experience some form of depression during the pandemic.
In the South West, more than 1 in 3 (34%) have needed help for their mental health over the past 12 months but worryingly, 12% didn’t seek any support or treatment.
Only 26% said they were aware of the urgent mental health NHS local helplines on offer.
In addition, just 7% felt they knew a lot about NHS mental health services, while 42% admitted they understood a little about the mental health support provided by the NHS.
Listen to the full conversation in this week's #MentalHealthMonday Podcast
Speak to your GP or self-refer
As part of its ‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign, the NHS is urging people with mental health issues to seek help, reassuring them they aren’t a burden and that the NHS can see them safely.
Anyone with anxiety or depression can access help from NHS Talking Therapies via their GP or through self-referral. This is a free, confidential and effective way to treat such common mental health issues.
Find out more about NHS Talking Therapies here
Other mental health services near where you live can be found by clicking on the Hub of Hope
You call Samaritans on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org