Residents’ advice to find local help.
Milton Keynes City Council is marking World Mental Health Day today, by encouraging residents to talk about their mental health and be aware of the local help available.
One in four adults in England will experience a mental health problem each year and yet many people will avoid or delay getting support, according to mental health charity Mind.
A dedicated page on the city council website contains a range of useful information about what to do if you are concerned about your mental health and who you should contact, along with campaigns and resources that promote positive mental health and wellbeing.
Men are statistically less likely to seek treatment or receive a diagnosis for a mental health condition. The Heads Up website (www.thisisheads-up.uk) is funded by the city council and provides guidance and resources around men’s mental health.
Today, the site has been relaunched with updated content including an online wellbeing check-up which links to NHS talking therapies, practical self-help tools and clear signposting to further support.
“World Mental Health Day is an opportunity for us to come together to talk about mental health – something that affects every one of us,” said Councillor Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Communities.
“It can be challenging to know what to do if you are worried about someone but it’s important to show them that there’s no shame or stigma in talking about how they feel.
“As a council, we want to make sure that residents know how to access the right support, whether that be for themselves or a loved one. In Milton Keynes, there’s a fantastic local network of partners across the health and voluntary sector and together, we can ensure that people receive the help they need, at the earliest stage.”
How to get help in a crisis:
A dedicated ‘Crisis Café team’ are available to support people across Milton Keynes, Bedford and Luton. The free service is available 365 days of the year. Call 01525 722 225 5pm-11pm, or for further information visit: www.mind-blmk.org.uk/how-we-can-help/crisis-support.
If you are experiencing significant emotional or mental distress, call NHS 111 and select the mental health option. If someone’s life is at risk, call 999 or go to the hospital A&E department.
