Access call over mental health

CARMARTHEN West and South Pembrokeshire MS Angela Burns has discussed the need for improved access to mental health support to help those suffering with issues during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mrs Burns was talking to representatives of Mind Cymru based in Carmarthen, who explained how mental health problems have grown during the Covid-19 lockdown and how accessing services has become more challenging since social distancing measures were put into place.

The MS raised the issue of ensuring the mental health of frontline staff was adequately addressed.

Additionally, the mental health of children in dealing with the changes of the previous few months was discussed as well as targeting resources to ensure that support was available to catch potential mental health problems at an early stage.

Mrs Burns said: “It is essential that there is provision easily available and accessible to enable people to talk through any mental health issues they have and obtain support and treatment before their illness progresses.

“My message is that if you are feeling that your mental health has been affected to get in touch with Mind Cymru or your GP to seek support. Help is out there and you should not need to fight this battle on your own.”