The theme of Mental Health Awareness Week this week is Kindness and South Scotland MSP Brian Whittle is encouraging everyone to take some time to look after their mental health and support those around them.
Former Olympian Brian is a longstanding advocate for good mental health and often speaks in Holyrood about the links between physical and mental health. As reports suggest that many more of us are struggling with our mental health because of lockdown, Brian’s urging us all to try and take some simple steps to look after ourselves and our friends and family.
The South Scotland MSP is also calling for the Scottish Government to work with mental health groups to ensure that we’re prepared for a likely increase in those needing help to deal with conditions like depression and anxiety in the coming weeks and months.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“Mental Health Awareness Week seems even more important this year than in any other. Lockdown is putting pressure on us all and that pressure is even greater for those working on the frontline. Even when we are finally able to put this pandemic behind us and there are no more cases of the virus to treat, the legacy on our mental health may last much longer.
From children who are too young to really understand why they can’t go to school and see their friends, to health and care staff working in hugely stressful conditions, to everyone who is stuck at home feeling cut off from the people they love, we’re all faced with challenges to our mental health right now.
For those of us who are able to get outside and exercise, even a brisk walk for 20 minutes or so can make a difference to how we’re feeling. There are also some great advice resources online from charities like SAMH and if you feel you need to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123 any time, day or night. And never forget that the NHS is still there to help if you need it.”
