Dorset Council is highlighting that Sunday 10th October is World Mental Health Day.
The theme this year is ‘‘Mental Health in an Unequal World’ and we are reminding residents of the importance of reaching out for help when it’s needed.
With many people having missed out on seeing family and friends because of the pandemic, it is now more important than ever for people to take care of their mental health.
One in four adults and one in ten children are likely to have a mental health problem in any given year. This can have a profound impact on the lives of tens of millions of people in the UK, and can affect their ability to sustain relationships, work, or just get through the day.
Mental ill-health knows no class, gender, age or economic boundaries and can affect any one of us at any time. Thankfully in recent years, the attitudes towards mental health have changed and it’s now more widely agreed that our mental health is as important as our physical health.
Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health said: “World Mental Health Day aims to get us all talking openly about mental health, mental illnesses and the treatment and preventions that are available to us all.
“The pandemic has, without doubt, changed our lives and for some, this has meant more mental health difficulties. There are little things we can all do to look after our mental health and also support people around us who are affected by poor mental health.
“Connecting with others can help us to feel better, whether it’s in person, online or over the phone. Spending quality time with friends or family, talking to someone about how we are feeling or finding ways to help other people can all help to improve our mental wellbeing.
“Don’t suffer in silence. Reach out for support if you need it.”
Mental Health services in Dorset:
Dorset Healthcare’s 24/7 Connection helpline: 0800 652 0190
Help and support is on offer from partner agencies and local organisations, including Dorset Healthcare, Public Health Dorset, and Dorset Mind. “
Steps 2 Wellbeing is a free, confidential service available to people aged 18+. It’s run by experienced professionals who will help you take the first step towards improving your mental health. They offer a range of treatments for people experiencing problems with low mood, depression, anxiety, stress or other common mental health problems.
Public Health Dorset signpost to the range of local and national mental health support services available to people of all ages and walks of life, including suicide prevention and bereavement support
The Dorset Mental Health Forum charity aims to help mental well-being and recovery, signposting to information and resources as well as a comprehensive list of local mental health services available in Dorset.
Financial worries can also contribute to poor mental health. If you’re experiencing financial difficulties call Dorset Citizens Advice now on Freephone 0800 144 8848 or visit our Reaching Out web pages for confidential help and advice.
Purbeck community mental health team have been brilliant during the pandemic and coming to my home to check in with me and give me my injection can’t fault them.