Mental health support available over Christmas

The festive season can be difficult for many to cope with, mental health experts say

People who might find the festive period difficult to deal with have been reminded by an NHS trust that help for mental health issues was always available.

Dr Emma Tiffin, a local GP and mental health clinical lead for NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said: "Whether you're... struggling financially or facing difficult memories, lots of us struggle with our mental health at this time of year and can feel more lonely than usual.

"It is important to remember you are not alone. It's OK to not be OK and there's a wide range of services available."

The services available include online advice, phone and text helplines, specialist bereavement sites or crisis mental health support.

'Check in on friends'

The range of services and support available are listed on the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Integrated Care System website.

Dr Tiffin said: "We also urge people to look out for others.

"Please check in on neighbours, friends and loved ones who live alone and who might be experiencing loneliness.

"A phone call or a visit can make all the difference to someone's wellbeing this Christmas."

Support for mental health issues includes services specifically geared towards younger people as well as older people, bereavement and relationship support and NHS 111's crisis line.

Further details, including self-help options can be found on the Keep Your Head website, which provides information on mental health and wellbeing for children, young people, adults, professionals and schools across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.