Focus is on stress for mental health week
Mental Health Awareness Week is running until Sunday and the focus is stress.
New research shows that in the past year, almost three quarters of people have, at some point, felt so stressed they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.
Stress can be a contributing factor in mental health, therefore it is definitely an issue that we want to be able to manage.
In government, the SNP has increased mental health spending to record levels, we have significantly increased the people working in child and adolescent mental health and we have also appointed the UK’s first dedicated Mental Health Minister.
Further to this, a 10-year strategy has been launched that includes actions for increased support and investment, in this area, in terms of raising awareness and ending the stigma behind mental health issues.
However, there is still a way to go, which is why it is so encouraging to see awareness campaigns and events, such as the Mental Health Awareness Week.
Events have been organised throughout the week for the campaign and I am pleased to see so many running here.
The events offer opportunities to get involved in the arts and participate in relaxing workshops, while also exploring the stresses that people face in their work and day-to-day lives, so I there will be something that everyone can relate to.
Find out what is happening near you at www.mhfestival. com/whats-on