World Mental Health Day is on Monday – links for help and advice
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The Highland Council supports World Mental Health Day on Monday (October 10) which helps raise awareness of mental health and encourages people to reach out for help.
The theme this year is ‘Make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority'.
Health, social care and wellbeing committee vice chair, Cllr Muriel Cockburn said: “By supporting and recognising World Mental Health Day, we are able to increase our understanding of mental health and its impact on our lives.
"We are all experiencing additional stresses and uncertainty because of global factors, Covid-19 pandemic recovery and the cost of living crisis. This means many of us across Highland are likely to be feeling the effects of reduced mental health. Help lessen the stigma around mental health by reaching out to family and friends, often by making people aware that you are there for them can be a welcome relief to those struggling.
“There are local mental health support groups across Highland, many of whom share lived experience of mental health issues. They offer a confidential, friendly listening service and can help direct you to local groups/support in your area.”
For information on Highland mental wellbeing and to locate groups in your area go to www.highlandmentalwellbeing.scot.nhs.uk/
If your mental or emotional state quickly gets worse, or you're worried about someone you know – help is available. You're not alone; across Highland there are mental health groups and charities there to help support anyone experiencing poor mental health or for those worried about friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing a problem is often the first step to recovery.
On Monday October 10 there will be a free online mental health and wellbeing webinar – information can be found here
The Prevent Suicide Highland Smartphone App provides guidance for members of the public as to what they can do to help someone experiencing mental distress and perhaps contemplating suicide and it can be downloaded for free here
The Scottish Government have also developed a site clearyourhead.scot
If you, or someone you care for, is in immediate danger call 999. If the crisis is not life threatening, call NHS 24 on 111 or speak to your GP. There are other services you can contact 24 hours a day for support, as per the following:
• Samaritans - 116 123 (calls are free and do not show on a phone bill)
• Breathing Space - 0800 83 85 87.
