Classic pop aids midwinter mental health campaign
Monday January 17th 2022
A nationwide campaign was launched today to stem the threat of midwinter depression with the “help” of pop stars old and new.
Leading psychiatrists warned of the risk of two years of pandemic-induced stress affecting millions of people who could be helped by talking therapies.
In the last two years, more than two million people have been prescribed these therapies, often after lockdowns and pandemic fears led to them needing help.
NHS England said the figure of those at risk may be much higher – with a newly released survey showing that half the population had concerns about mental health last year.
In the campaign, well-known modern singers will participate in performing the early Beatles classic “Help!” – with the chorus “help me if you can, I’m feeling down.”
The president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Dr Adrian James, said: “The pandemic has affected so many of our lives and has led to many more people needing support for their mental health.
“Anyone from any background can experience anxiety and depression and it’s important that people with these symptoms come forward to seek help.
“This campaign is vitally important and will help even more people get the mental health support they need from our fantastic NHS services.”
Gillian Keegan, minister for mental health, said: “The British people have shown great resilience and support for each other over the last two years, but it’s understandable the pandemic might continue to affect our mental wellbeing with people feeling anxious, low or worried – particularly in the winter months.
“It’s vital we look after our mental health and talking therapies provide great support for anybody experiencing anxiety or depression – you can self-refer or be referred through your GP.”
Tags: Mental Health | NHS | UK News
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