Chesterfield campaigner urges people struggling with their mental health to ‘reach out to others’

The pandemic continues to have an impact on all of our daily lives – and it is important that people take care of their minds as well as their bodies.

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Mental health campaigner Adrian Rimington, of Horsley Close, said: “These are very difficult times for us all.

“I would urge people who are concerned about their mental health to reach out to others and speak about things – a problem shared is a problem halved.

“They may have someone in their household they can talk to – or they might want to consider contacting their GP or one of the many mental health helplines to get support.

“I think it’s also important to point out that, unlike in the first lockdown last year, people living alone can now form a support bubble with another household – this is really important in tackling loneliness and isolation.”

Sixty-four-year-old Adrian, who is also chair of the Disability Campaigners group, said he was ‘very concerned’ about people’s mental health at the moment.

“Human beings are deeply social creatures and the virus is affecting pretty much every part of our lives,” he added.

“I think it’s important to remember that there is hope with the vaccines.

“Hopefully things will get better as the year goes on.”

In April last year, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust launched a 24/7 mental health helpline.

Thousands of calls have been made to the helpline – 0800 028 0077. It is a freephone number and calls from landlines or mobiles should be free.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was sorry for the extra anxiety the pandemic was causing people with mental health conditions.

The Government has provided guidance on how people can help their mental health and well-being at this time.

The guidance encourages people to talk about their worries, engage in meaningful activities – such as reading or keeping in touch with friends – and consider ways of helping others in the community.

For more information about mental health charities, organisations and support groups, visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines.

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