This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Mental health advice for festive season
22/12/2002
As the holidays begin, Dr Andrew Fraser, Deputy Chief Medical Officer has offered advice to help deal with the stresses and strains that many may feel during the festive period.
Speaking on the weekend before Christmas, Dr Fraser said:
"We know that mental health problems are common. Recent evidence shows that people in Scotland identified factors such as financial difficulties and unwelcome stress as having an impact on their day-to-day health and well-being. It is therefore important to look after your own mental well-being and that of others during the festive season.
"Whilst for many this time is full of fun, for others it may be a time of sadness or pressure. Many people feel stress, depression or loneliness and it is important for all of us to be aware of this. Family reunions can also bring with them tensions or reminders of the loss of a loved one.
"Looking after yourself and looking out for others by visiting, talking or just listening to those around us can help make things easier during this time.
"Everyone needs help from time to time. The festive period is no different. There are health professionals, helplines and other support services which can help but friends, family members, neighbours and colleagues are often the mainstay."
Dr Fraser also suggested some ways in which individuals could keep a check on their mental health and that of friends and loved ones:
Key tips for yourself:
- Keep active - physical activity can help your mental as well as physical health
- Be around people - keep communicating and interacting, and perhaps tell a trusted friend how you feel
- Take time out to relax - try and find a balance of tasks with recreation
- Ask for help - don't be afraid to ask for and accept the help of others
Key tips for thinking about others:
- Listen without judgement - some may need a friendly ear
- Respond to requests for help - be aware that others may need your help
- Encourage others to seek help - help from skilled professionals is available 24/7
- Keep an eye on changes in behaviour or attitude - be aware of those who may need support
Useful telephone helplines operate over this period too. Helplines available
include: Samaritans - 08457 90 90 90; Breathing Space - 0800 83 85 87; NHS
24 - 08454 24 24 24; Childline - 0800 1111
The Executive's National Programme to Improve Mental Health and Well-Being in Scotland is supported by £4m investment form the Executive's Health Improvement Fund over a 3-year period from 2001-2004 and with £20m from 2003 - 2006. The Programme's initial components of work include:
- Well? What Do You Think? A National Scottish Survey Of Public Attitudes To Mental Health, Well Being And Mental Health Problems:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/library5/health/wwdy-00.asp
- the national anti-stigma campaign - see me - launched in October: http://www.seemescotland.org
- choose life: A National Strategy and Action Plan to Prevent Suicide in Scotland:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/library5/health/clss-00.asp
Details on the National Programme to Improve Mental Health and Well-Being in
Scotland can be found at: http://www.show.scot.nhs.uk/sehd/mentalwellbeing