HEALTH chiefs are urging people to get the help and support they need this ‘Blue Monday’.

Blue Monday is often associated with doom and gloom, as people feel down post-Christmas and are awaiting their January pay day.

But NHS South Cheshire and Vale Royal clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) want residents to use today, January 15, as a chance to have positive conversations about our mental health – taking advantage of the help and support available.

Lesley Cleworth, service delivery manager for mental health commissioning at the CCGs, said: “Blue Monday is the perfect opportunity to raise awareness of mental health. 

“Many people may face an ongoing battle with depression or anxiety, but it is important to remember that help is available.

“Don’t suffer in silence, speak up and talk to someone about what you are going through and get the support you need.

“You may feel like you don’t want to see someone face to face, which is why the CCGs have invested in a number of tools to help you, when and where you need it.”

Mental Health Self Help Guides

A range of online self-help guides and smartphone app have been developed to offer the latest mental health advice.

These come in the form of leaflets, audio clips and videos which have been produced by health professionals to offer support on a range of topics including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, panic and stress.

To download the Self-Help app, search for ‘South Cheshire CCG & Vale Royal CCG Self Help Guides’ in the Apple App Store or Google Play, or visit southcheshireccg.nhs.uk orvaleroyalccg.nhs.uk

You in Mind

Youinmind.org is a ‘one-stop shop’ putting mental health advice online when you need it.

The platform includes a dedicated search option to find quick information on a range of mental health conditions such as depression, stress, eating disorders and bereavement.

Detailed information booklets are also available to view and download explaining about a condition with help on how to manage it and ideas people can try, while local services are also listed.

Big White Wall

Big White Wall is a safe, anonymous, online support platform which is available 24/7. 

It is a supportive online community with information and self-help resources, with trained counsellors online at all times.

Access is free and easy – go to bigwhitewall.com and enter your postcode.

Samaritans

The Samaritans are also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 116 123.