Dorset Council launch 'Within Reach' campaign for world mental health day

Within Reach mental health campaign aims to help people living in rural areas of Dorset

World Mental Health Day
Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 10th Oct 2022

Dorset Council have launched a campaign hoping to support people living in the most rural areas of Dorset.

With almost a quarter of Dorset's residents living in secluded areas, it can have a detrimental impact on their mental health due to isolation. Research shows that nationally, suicide rates are much higher in more rural communities.

Trevor Cligg is an ex-dairy farmer from West Dorset who has tackled his own mental health issues, he said: " I think the key thing to do when you're feeling isolated is to talk to someone. It could be a family member, it could be a friend, it could be a complete stranger"

"There are plenty of helplines that you can get on to. It really can help. A problem shared is a problem halved."

"Get out there and talk to someone, it doesn't matter who. Just talk to someone and ask for a bit of help. After that it will become a little bit easier to deal with and someone else will understand how you're feeling."

If you don't feel comfortable talking to close ones, you can contact a free support service 24/7:

  • Dorset’s NHS mental health helpline Connection – call 0800 652 0190
  • Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for confidential support via text message
  • Samaritans – call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org and someone will get back to you within 24 hours

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