Expert pleads: ‘Don’t suffer alone’

A LEADING Tayside psychiatrist is urging people experiencing mental health difficulties over the holidays not to “suffer alone”.

Dr Chris Pell, clinical lead for general adult psychiatry in Angus, said: “We understand the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic means it may be even more difficult for people to cope this year as they may be unable to see family and friends.

“The festive season can sometimes add increased pressure on those with mental health conditions.

“They may feel there is a constant demand to feel happy during the Christmas holidays and they may struggle to tell people how they really feel.

“It is very important for people to know support is available and no one should ever feel afraid to ask for help. Mental health can affect everyone and people should know they do not need to suffer alone.”

NHS Tayside has developed a social media campaign to offer tips to support wellbeing over the festive season and published an online list of mental health support and advice organisations, resources and helplines both in Tayside and nationally.

The list, which was developed together with public health staff, third sector partners and representatives from mental health special interest groups, is available through the new Living Life Well website at nhstayside.scot.nhs.uk

NHS Tayside interim director of mental health and learning disabilities Kate Bell said: “We know the festive season can often be a difficult time – it can leave some people feeling alone or lonely, can cause additional pressure or can increase worries about money and the cost of Christmas.

“People may also be struggling with how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting the celebrations.

“Mental ill health can affect everyone at any time of the year, so it is important we assist people to understand what support is available. We hope this directory will make finding that advice and support easier.”

A CHARITY has revealed it gave away a whopping 2.15 tonnes of free food to Dundonians on Christmas Eve.

More than 400 people turned up to West End Community Fridge on Christmas Eve for the free giveaway, consisting of food which would have otherwise been discarded by supermarkets across the city.

Mountains of potatoes, carrots, parsnips and sprouts were available as well as dozens of turkeys and even a goose.

AN assault trial has been delayed after a sheriff turned down an offer from the accused to host the court in his bedroom.

James Scott, 60, made the bizarre offer to hold court in his home because he has a number of underlying health problems which make him high risk.

His lawyer told Perth Sheriff Court that Scott was wheelchairbound and bedridden, and was too afraid to attend a trial in a public courtroom during the pandemic.

Solicitor Gary Fowlis told the court that Scott had made the offer to stay in bed and “attend” a trial virtually from his bedroom via a video link.

Scott, of Keptie Road, Arbroath, denies assaulting staff member Stephanie O’Brien inside Perth Prison on June 18 2019 by throwing a bag of urine which burst and showered her.

Mr Fowlis said: “He is very vulnerable and has a significant number of major health difficulties. He is absolutely terrified by the Covid pandemic.

“The court will be aware of the