Help and support is available for anyone living with a mental health problem

That’s the reassuring message from the charity Mind Halton as mental health in the workplace is the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day on October 10.

Research shows that one in five people take a day off work due to stress and in the last six years the number of working days lost to stress, depression and anxiety has increased by 24 per cent.

Yet less than half of employees said they would feel able to talk openly with their line manager if they were suffering from stress.

Many people find it difficult to talk about mental health issues often for fear of doing or saying the wrong thing. 

Nic Lunt, Mind Halton chief officer, said: “Mental health is one of the biggest issues facing our society today and Halton faces some especially tough challenges.

“Together we can raise awareness, increase understanding and eliminate any remaining stigma associated with mental illness for good.

“We are here to make sure anyone with a mental health problem has somewhere to turn to for advice and support.

“This year’s theme for World Mental Health Day is a great way to find out more about mental health, promote well-being and begin these conversations.”

Mind Halton will be supporting health and wellbeing fayres at Balfour Beatty Mott MacDonald and Highways England in Manchester and Warrington and the The Science and Technology Facilities Council at Daresbury Laboratory.

The charity is also supporting a presentation by Mates in Mind to roofing contractors at NW Roof Training Group in Haydock.

Nic added: “As well as advice and guidance, we offer a range of services tailored specifically to the needs of our community all of which aim to support people with mental health problems as they move towards a better life in society and promote the dignity, well-being and of people experiencing mental distress.”

A team of professionals offers a counselling service which includes a range of talking therapies, provided in a safe, relaxed environment during the daytime and evenings.

The charity’s day services provide a nurturing, friendly environment where people experiencing mental health problems can be open about their moods and feelings and feel supported to take part in a range of activities such as learning new skills, meeting new people and going on trips out – all designed to help people towards recovery at their own pace.

For further information about Mind Halton visit mindhalton.org.uk or call 01928 563612.

To campaign to break the silence that surrounds mental health visit time-to-change.org.uk.