COVID-19 continues to impact our daily lives and the emergence of the Omicron variant is once again a stark reminder that the pandemic is not yet over. I want people to know support is available for them 24/7.
Our health has for nearly two years been at the forefront of all our minds, both physical and mental.
The pandemic has affected many of us over the last few years, including our emotional and mental wellbeing. Christmas and New Year can also be a difficult time for some and I want to highlight the range of easy to access support available to people ahead of the festive period.
If you need any help for anything that maybe causing you anxiety you can contact our CALL mental health advice line, which is open 24/7. Call 0800 132 737 or text ‘help’ to 8106. Additionally, people can visit the Silvercloud website, where they can access Cognitive Behavioural Therapy online. Further information on the range of support available can be found at the NHS Wales 111 website.
We continue to work with mental health charities who all play such an important role in providing support for people with mental health issues. Samaritans Cymru are one of those partners providing support that people may need. Samaritans provides confidential emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress and despair, including those which could lead to suicide. You can contact Samaritans by telephone by calling 116123 free of charge or by emailing jo@samaritans.org.
Additionally, veterans can access Veterans’ NHS Wales. Veterans and their families can refer themselves directly via the Veterans NHS Wales website: Home - Veterans Wales or be referred by a GP or third sector organisation.
Papyrus Prevention of Young Suicide runs HOPELINEUK (0800 068 4141 every day 9 to midnight ) for anyone under the age of 35 who is experiencing thoughts of suicide or anyone concerned about them.
This year has been a real challenge for us all and our children and young people have particularly been affected. Our Young Person’s Mental Health Toolkit is there to help, available via the Hwb platform and provides details of a range of resources, including helplines and websites. Welsh: Repository - Hwb (gov.wales) English: Repository - Hwb (gov.wales)
We also know that Christmas can be a difficult time for those living with an eating disorder, help and support can be accessed via beateatingdisorders.org.uk/support-services
These are really challenging times and it’s important to look out for one and other, playing our part in encouraging people to talk about what worries them and to seek help.
I want to take this opportunity to show my gratitude to everyone who is providing mental health support, to every individual and organisation playing their part, thank you.