NHS Lanarkshire is backing a new national campaign designed to help people look after their mental wellbeing.

Mind to Mind, a new website hosted on NHS Inform, features over 30 videos of people talking about their own mental wellbeing challenges in order to help others who may be going through the same.

Covering topics including dealing with anxiety and panic, handling stress, improving sleep, lifting mood and moving through grief, each contributor shares practical advice on what has worked for them.

The website also features commentary from a range of professionals and signposts where people can access further help and support.

Dr Simon Stuart, consultant clinical psychologist and digital lead for NHS Lanarkshire psychological services, said: “Thousands of people in Lanarkshire every month already visit our own pioneering website, Lanarkshire Mind Matters, to help improve their wellbeing.

“This new national resource is a valuable addition to what we offer. It features inspiring stories from people who have successfully dealt with mental-wellbeing challenges, and has some great advice from professionals too.

“We are always growing and developing Lanarkshire Mind Matters, and the national Mind To Mind site will be a vital complement to our work.”

Kevin Stewart, minister for mental wellbeing and social care, said:

“Mind to Mind has been created by people who have experienced mental wellbeing challenges for people who may be going through the same thing.

“If you’re finding things difficult, it’s important to remember support is available. Hearing about the experiences of others can help to navigate life’s daily stresses, and alongside practical advice, the website signposts where people can access further help.

“We’re hugely grateful to everyone who has contributed their advice on what has worked for them. Being so open about the challenges they’ve faced will hopefully help many others look after and improve their own mental wellbeing.”

Stephanie Phillips, director of service delivery at NHS 24, said:

“Mind to Mind and the video stories that have been so generously shared with us are a valuable addition to our online mental health resources at NHS Inform.

“If you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or low, or having problems sleeping or dealing with grief this site can help you by hearing from others. You can also explore a range of guides, podcasts and organisations that can help.

“We are committed to offering a range of services to support people in the ways they find best for them when mental wellbeing challenges come along, as they do for everyone. Your GP, our phone lines and the emergency services are available for anyone that needs urgent help.”

The new national site is at www.nhsinform.scot/mindtomind. Lanarkshire Mind Matters is at lanarkshiremindmatters.scot.nhs.uk.

Notes:

The Mind to Mind campaign will run from today across digital and radio. You can view the campaign advert here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPD1Tm5FIh8&t=1s

There are many ways to get in touch, whatever your needs. For urgent support, you can speak to the below:

• During office hours, you can contact your GP.
• Anytime, you can phone 111.
• In an emergency, you can phone 999.
• Local NHS services helpline 0800 22 44 88. The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 6.00pm.
• For any other information: https://www.nhsinform.scot/contact-us