Russell reveals mental health report
With World Mental Health Day as his platform, Argyll and Bute MSP Michael Russell published the analysis report from his recent mental health survey.
The survey, which ran through June to August, received 349 responses with Mr Russell’s constituents sharing their views on the current mental health services in Argyll and Bute.
Respondents of all ages and backgrounds, including service users, staff, family and friends of service users and volunteers, took the time to complete the survey.
A main concern raised by the survey was access to mental health services, with only 29.02 per cent agreeing they found it ‘easy to access’ services.
Comments regarding this indicated that most service users are referred by their GP but there could be an improvement in signposting to online resources for lower level cases, in the hope of reducing waiting times.
Waiting times was by far the biggest concern of respondents, followed by the need for additional staff and support for current staff.
Respondents were also given the opportunity to suggest ways services could improve, with suggestions including developing local hubs for peer support; increasing counselling services and increasing crisis services and out-of-hours care.
Before publication the report was discussed and explored at a meeting with Scottish Government cabinet secretary for health and sport Jeane Freeman MSP and a number of representatives from Argyll’s mental health services.
Mr Russell said: ‘I am pleased to present my analysis report of the mental health in Argyll and Bute survey, especially as it is World Mental Health Day.
‘This was an instrumental part of our meeting with Jeane Freeman last week which led to a mutual feeling that the concern expressed about mental health services in Argyll and Bute has to be heard and ensuring the best possible support is available is now the objective of all involved.
‘It is crucial that mental health is given the same attitude and care as physical health and as it is a day of awareness it is a great opportunity to reflect on this.’