The government’s new plan to deal with the psychological fallout of the pandemic has been welcomed as a potential “breakthrough moment”.

The blueprint looks to embed innovations that have taken place during the pandemic, including increased access to online wellbeing support.

Mental Health Foundation Scotland Director, Lee Knifton says he is pleased to see the government commit to a plan that calls for mental health to be considered in all walks of life.

“We have consistently advocated for all policies approach and today’s plan feels like a breakthrough moment,” he said.

“Mental health is much more than mental illness, it must be considered in our schools, workplaces, our welfare system and our justice system. This plan is an important step in that direction.”

In September the Scottish Association for Mental Health warned lives were at risk if an ambitious redesign of mental health services was not undertaken. A survey carried out by the charity found nearly half of people with mental health problems did not get care or treatment because of the pandemic.

Last week a report revealed up to a third of patients hospitalised with covid-19 developed serious mental health problems.

Published today in advance of World Mental Health Day on the 10^th October, the new plan promises to focus on ‘key groups’ including children and young people, people facing redundancy and those with long-term health conditions.

Mr Knifton added: “This ambitious plan will need investment to achieve maximum impact, but any investment in mental health will realise social, health and economic benefits down the line.”

The plan promises to cement some of the innovations that emerged during lockdown, including the ‘Clear Your Head’ campaign and a rise in help available online.

Mental Health Assessment Centres established during the pandemic in locations separate to emergency departments for anyone in distress or crisis will also be built upon as part of the plan.

NHS boards are to receive tailored programmes of support from the Scottish government to help them respond to the “anticipated increase in demand in the months ahead”.

Announcing the plan to parliament, Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey said: “If the past few weeks have told us anything, it is that the road to recovery from this pandemic will not be linear.

“However, one thing that has remained constant is the importance of looking after ourselves, and of keeping well.

“I doubt there is a single one of us who hasn’t thought about our mental wellbeing, or worried about that of others, at some point during 2020.

“Our Transition and Recovery Plan for Mental Health reflects how fundamental this issue is. It is comprehensive, containing over a hundred actions, and focusses on the specific mental health needs of everyone across Scotland.”

 

If you need help, contact:

Breathing Space telephone helpline – 0800 83 85 87 – and web support service.

https://clearyourhead.scot/  contains resources and tips to help people take care of their mental health and wellbeing.

 

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