Cornwall Samaritans here to help for those struggling with mental health this new year
The festive season along with the coronavirus pandemic can become 'overwhelming' for a lot of people in the Duchy
With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic coupled with the festive season, a charity has said it can be a 'very overwhelming' time of year for people across Cornwall as many continue to struggle with mental health.
Cornwall Samaritans took more than 10,000 calls in the Duchy on Christmas day alone in 2019 and anticipate for that number to have risen during Christmas 2020.
Those working for the charity say it is their busiest time of year with many people finding the festive season 'overwhelming'.
However, with the added strain caused by the pandemic, they say it is the 'perfect storm' for those already finding it difficult.
“Some people really feared Christmas. They see everybody out shopping and having fun and parties and drinking and eating. But this year, they can’t get out and do such things which have made things twice as bad.”
Richard Suttons, Cornwall Samaritans
This new year, the charity is now urging for those who are finding it tough this new year to get in touch, ensuring that advice and assistance are available to anyone in need.
It is also aware that a number of people in Cornwall who don't speak to another living soul, day in day out, which it says is 'tragic'.
“Christmas is a wonderful time of year but for some people, in actual fact, I think for many people it’s also a time of feelings of loneliness, depression and anxiety which can literally overwhelm them.”
Richard Suttons, Cornwall Samaritans
If you are struggling, you can contact Cornwall Samaritans by calling 116 123 free from any phone or you can call 0330 094 5717 however local charges will apply.
For more information, visit the Cornwall Samaritans website here.