New mental health project launched in Fife

A new mental health campaign to help people cope during the coronavirus pandemic has been launched in Fife.

The Scottish Government’s ‘Clear Your Head’ campaign highlights the practical things people can do to help them feel better whilst continuing to stay at home during the extended lockdown.

Some simple steps to taking better care of our mental health and wellbeing over the coming weeks include, keep to a routine by trying to sleep and wake at the same time, and eating at regular times.

Try to stay active, within the current Government guidance, to boost your mood, taking a break by limiting your exposure to the news on social media if you feel things are getting on top of you, instead use fun games, quizzes and apps online to pass the time and to help alleviate stress.

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Make time for yourself by simply taking a breather or doing something you enjoy, or keep in touch with family and friends to ease worries and to feel connected with your loved ones.

Along with a range of tips on how to stay positive, the campaign website clearyourhead.scot will signpost sources of help and advice including NHS Inform, and helplines including NHS24, Breathing Space, SAMH and the Samaritans.

The campaign, which will run across television, radio, and online, is part of a package of measures announced by the Scottish Government to help people look after their mental health during and after the coronavirus outbreak.

This includes £3.8 million of extra funding to begin to increase the capacity of NHS24’s telephone and online services, and investment of more than £1 million towards the expansion of the Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) programme.

Clare Haughey, Minister for Mental Health said: “The restrictions on our lives, whilst vital, are undoubtedly tough, bringing feelings of anxiety, frustration and worry as we try to cope and adapt. It’s never been more important to look after our mental health, and this campaign has been launched to highlight the things we can do every day to feel better and stay mentally healthy.

“These are unprecedented times and it’s important that people know what support is there if they need to speak to someone. We appreciate everyone’s efforts to prevent the spread of the virus, and hope this campaign helps people to take care of themselves as restrictions continue.”

Billy Watson, chief executive at SAMH said: “Many of us now need to spend more time at home, isolated from the friends, family, relationships and activities that are vital to keeping ourselves mentally healthy.

“Over the last few weeks SAMH has experienced increased demand for information and supportive conversations on mental health as a result. We welcome and support the ‘Clear Your Head’ campaign, which highlights ways we can protect our mental health during this unprecedented time.”

For more information and advice visit https://clearyourhead.scot/

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