A CAMPAIGN launched to increase awareness of local mental health services has seen a 50 per cent increase in self-referrals.

Now We’re Talking, which is run by Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, was launched at the start of May after referrals into the Worcestershire Healthy Minds Service dropped by around 70 per cent.

The campaign was originally launched in 2018 and enlisted the support of local businesses and organisations to help raise awareness of Healthy Minds, which supports people experiencing more common issues such as stress, anxiety, low mood or worry.

Latest figures for May show an increase in referrals into Healthy Minds of 50 per cent and although overall this is still below normal referral rates, it means more people are accessing the help and support they need.

Louise Seeney, Deputy Service Delivery Unit Lead – Mental Health and Learning Disabilities for Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust: “Locally and nationally there had been a reduction in the numbers of people accessing mental health support and given the challenges we are all experiencing at the moment, it was really important to highlight the local support available.

"The message of the campaign is simple, that mental health services are open and accessible and if you need advice or support then please get in touch.”

The Healthy Minds team is open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm and can be contacted on 0300 302 13 13. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health and wellbeing at the moment you can find out more about the range of local services available at nowweretalking.nhs.uk.

In addition if people require more urgent advice to support their mental wellbeing there is a 24/7 urgent mental health helpline which is available by calling: 01905 681915.

You can also follow the campaign on Twitter @NowWereTalking_ and on Facebook @NowWereTalkingWorcs