PEOPLE with mental health worries are being urged to seek help in a new phase of the NHS’s Help Us Help You campaign. Although mental health services have been running throughout the pandemic there was a marked dip in referrals despite evidence that Coronavirus is making problems more common. Now a new NHS campaign will encourage anyone suffering from anxiety, depression or other issues to come forward for assessment and treatment.

The Mail:

NHS talking therapies, also known as Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT), are a confidential service ran by fully trained experts. Dan Webber, a well-known mental health charity fundraiser for Furness, said: "We need to focus on our mental health in the current circumstances more than ever before. "The isolation and loneliness people in our community experienced prior to lockdown one has been heightened at a time where we could really do with someone to talk to. "The Help Us Help You campaign is a crucial part of the provision needed to meet the communities needs. As well as the fantastic work from Mind in Furness and SAFA.

The Mail:

"Four in 10 people are too concerned about being a burden on the NHS to seek help from their GP. "My advice is to put yourself first and seek help. It will be ok, despite what you think." People can access the service by visiting their GP or refer themselves online. Claire Murdoch, NHS National Director for Mental Health said: “The NHS has been and continues to be here for the nation’s mental health. "We know the impact that COVID and lockdown can have on people’s mental health and it has never been more important to seek help. "We are proud to launch our first national campaign on mental health services today and encourage people to come forward for mental health care. “People might feel nervous about burdening the NHS or getting exposed to the virus but remember we are here to help. Whether you are a new mum, an older person or struggling with work, please speak to your GP or self-refer online so we can get you the mental health support you need. No matter what age you are, these therapies help and are effective and we want you to come forward." To find out more about talking therapies, you can visit the NHS website: nhs.uk/talk