On dealing with stress as music world mourns singer’s death
Mental Health Awareness Week, which starts tomorrow.
She added: “There will be some things that you can do very little to change, but Mental Health Awareness Week is a good time to think about where you can take small steps to help improve your frame of mind.
“I’m making my own commitment to try to be more active. It’s not always easy for me to do, but a walk is a great way not just to keep fit but to get some fresh air and to take some time out from the daily pressures of life.”
Mental health experts have also delivered a clear message that not only is it good to talk, but it’s also crucial someone is there to listen.
Calum Irving, of mental health charity See Me, said: “Too many young people are dismissed when they try to speak to someone about how they are feeling. If young people are faced with dismissive, negative and judgmental attitudes and behaviours when trying to get help – whether that is for self- harm or other mental health problems – then unfortunately some will feel like they are left with no hope.
“It only takes one adult to make a difference to a young person’s life. We all have the power to listen and help someone to get the support they need.”
James Jopling, executive director for Scotland at Samaritans, added: “More people under 29 die from suicide in Scotland each year than all cancers added together.
“The new suicide prevention strategy in Scotland needs to show real ambition, backed up with resources.
“We must be able to support young people both in terms of their general mental health and their well-being.
“We must ensure if things escalate, that support is available, accessible, compassionate and meets young people’s needs locally and nationally.”
Suicide claimed the lives of 728 Scots in 2016.
Frances Simpson, chief executive of Support in Mind Scotland, warned that often young people “don’t feel they are taken seriously”. She added: “We have published a report into mental health in rural areas. Young people told us what would make a difference would be to encourage people to talk openly about experiences, to reduce stigma and get people talking about mental health as much as physical health.”
Scottish Association for Mental Health chief executive Billy Watson said: “More needs to be done for young people who are particularly at risk of suicide and self- harm. They face increasing societal pressures and now more than ever before are seeking help for their mental health.”
Mental Health Awareness Week runs from May 14 to 20. Organisers say this year’s focus is on helping employees and employers create a “mentally healthy workplace where everyone feels valued and supported”.
Meanwhile, members of Frightened Rabbit – which includes Scott’s brother Grant – have laid a floral tribute at the South Queensferry marina where his body was found.