This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and Stirling’s MP Alyn Smith and MSP Bruce Crawford are urging local people to seek the help they need.
Whilst the country has been in lockdown, there has been number of people who have contacted Mr Smith and Mr Crawford, concerned about the impact that social distancing can have on people’s mental health.
The Scottish Government recently launched a website, www.clearyourhead.scot, with tips on how to stay healthy and active during lockdown, as well as where to go if you need advice and support.
Commenting, Alyn Smith MP said:
“Being physically away from friends and family is hard. Yes, many of us are managing to get by with communication technology but it simply isn’t the same as spending quality time with the people we’re close to.
“We’re doing this for a good purpose and it is undoubtedly saving lives, but that doesn’t make it any easier on people’s mental health.
“It’s important to remember that it’s ok to not be ok. Help is out there and you should seek it if you feel you are struggling. Trying to ride it out in silence won’t make it go away, so it’s important to recognise it if you need help and to let professionals talk to you about what they can do.”
Bruce Crawford MSP said:
“If you want to do one thing to help others’ mental health this week, please share the clearyourhead.scot link on your social media and with your friends and family – you never know who could benefit from it. I’ve used it myself, and it’s packed with hints and tips on staying physically and mentally healthy during this difficult period.
“The Scottish Government put mental health support at the centre of its program over the past few years, and never has the importance of that been more profound than in the situation we find ourselves in now.
“There is absolutely no stigma or shame in seeking help, and ignoring a problem is very unlikely to make it go away. It’s ok not to be ok.”