NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire provides information of the mental health support and advice available over the Christmas period
Christmas is usually a time of fun and festivity for people – but for some, the holidays could have a negative impact on their mental health.
NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire has provided information lots of support and advice available locally and online.
Dr Laura James, a GP and Mental Health Clinical Lead at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said simple self-help steps can be beneficial.
“There are things you can do yourself to reduce feelings of anxiety and improve your mental wellbeing, such as regular exercise and getting enough sleep," she said. "Eating well and staying hydrated as well as setting goals and priorities can all contribute to better mental health.
“And it’s important to know there is always someone to talk to and that you can ask for help when you need to."
Here’s a breakdown of the services, with contact details, that you can contact over the Christmas period of you need to reach out and seek help:
NottAlone — NottAlone is here to support people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to access local, tailored mental health support and advice. Visit NottAlone.org.uk to find helpful articles and information on mental health topics that are important to you, as well as links to local services which can help for free if you need more support.
Talking therapies — People aged 18 and over can access the Talking Therapies services for issues like depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and stress. You can contact the services directly by calling 0333 188 1060 or visit https://notts-talk.co.uk/ or speak to your GP.
Crisis sanctuaries — Nottinghamshire Crisis Sanctuaries can help you with support, information and guidance if you are over 18 years old and experiencing mental health issues or in a mental health crisis.
Children and young people — Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (or CAMHS) are for people up to 18 years old. You can find out more about CAMHS at www.nottinghamshirehealthcare.nhs.uk/camhs
Kazia Foster, deputy director of the Mental Health Care Group at Nottinghamshire Healthcare, said: “For many people Christmas is a joyful time of the year but for some it can be really difficult.”
“Some people may feel under pressure to create the ‘perfect’ Christmas or some may feel increasingly isolated at this time of year. There can be any number of reasons why you may struggle with your mental health and wellbeing.
“It’s important to know there is always someone to talk to and that you can ask for help when you need to – you’re not alone, your local health and care services are here for you.”
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, are feeling overwhelmed or are having suicidal thoughts, you can call NHS 111 and choose option 2 for mental health, or call Samaritans on 116 123.
