Mental health support is available
South Lanarkshire residents are being urged to seek support for the effects of lockdown on their mental health if they need it.
The region’s health and social care partnership have said they are keen to see anyone struggling with anxiety, depression or even suicidal thoughts seek the support offered.
Across Lanarkshire, work has continued to support those most in crisis throughout the pandemic, and those services are ready and open to offer help and advice to those who are struggling.
Councillor John Bradley (Cambuslang West) is chair of South Lanarkshire’s social work committee and he wants to encourage people to make contact with the organisations that can help.
Cllr Bradley said:“during this time we know that lots of people are feeling lonely and isolated. Coupled with significant changes to the routine of daily life, increased stress, anxiety and fear are almost inevitable, but for some, this is more than they can cope with.
“The most important message that we can give right now is that you are not alone. Whatever COVID-19 has meant to you, and your life, each day is a new day and there are many experienced and supportive people ready and willing to hold your hand.
“Our message is particularly aimed at those for whom the struggle is becoming overwhelming, and who may see no way out.
“Together with health and third sector partners we support the Every Life Matters suicide prevention campaign and are working hard to make sure that this vital message reaches those who really need to hear it.
“Whatever your gender, age or situation, there is someone waiting to hear from you through a call, an email, a text message or increasingly through social media and apps. It’s a journey that can begin with that single step.”
Support is often just a call, text or message away, whether it’s NHS specialist and GP services or charities such as the Samaritans (samaritans.org) and Big White Wall (bigwhitewall.com) - a new, free-to-use mental health and wellbeing service for 16-19 year-olds in South Lanarkshire, designed to offer online peer to peer and professional support.
Links to a range of mental health support is available on South Lanarkshire Council’s website at https://www.southlanarkshire. gov.uk.
There are also web and app-based services such as Stay Alive (https://www.preventsuicide.org.uk/find-help-now/ stay-alive-app/), Clear your Head (https://www. supportinmindscotland.org.uk/ news/clear-your-head) and a new, dedicated helpline, The Calm Zone (thecalmzone.net) offering support to men of all ages who are experiencing depression or are in crisis.