Local mental health charity Hull and East Yorkshire Mind has shared a series of questions and answers to let local people know about the kind of things they can get in touch about. The Q&A comes shortly after the charity announced that they are continuing to work24/7 to support local people with their mental health.
The 24 hour information line, which is funded by Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, is for anyone in the local area that wants to talk about how they are feeling, what is happening in their life right now or just generally struggling with their mental health. Additionally, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind encourage calls from people who are worried about family or friends who may be struggling with their mental health.
Emma Dallimore, Chief Executive at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind said:
“We receive thousands of calls every year from different people all across our local area, but we know that there are many more people that need our help. We understand that life can sometimes be a struggle, but we want to remind people that you are not alone. We are here to help, to listen, and to support.”
“The information line is great starting point for people who perhaps don’t know what next steps to take. Our 24 hour information line is confidential and there to support local people, their friends, family members or colleagues with their mental health and wellbeing”.
The charity recognises that people in the local area may not want to get in touch with the information line due to the stigma attached to mental health, or confusion about what they can help with. To help with this, Hull and East Yorkshire Mind have produced the following questions for local people:
Do I have to give my name when getting in touch?
No, our information line is completely confidential, but there are times we may have to ask for your name. This is likely to happen if you want to receive support, be signposted to another organisation or if we have reason to believe you may be at risk of harm to yourself or others.
Does my GP have to refer me for support?
- No, your GP does not have to refer you to receive support from us. If you do feel like your mental health is making everyday a struggle, or want to look at medication etc, then we would recommend speaking to your GP first, however if you want to chat about what is going on for you, give us a call and we can discuss possible options that suit you.
I am feeling lonely, can you help?
- Yes we can, give us a call and we can have a chat about support might be available. We have different options available to meet the needs of each person.
I am feeling isolated, what support is available?
- We recognise that isolation can have a really big impact on our mental health and often lead to things such as depression and anxiety. We have a range of support available designed to improve mental health and well-being and combat social isolation.
Is there an age limit for getting in touch?
- No we don’t have an age limit. We are here for everyone experiencing a mental health problem, their friends, family members or colleagues.
I’m worried about my friend, he/she is acting differently… What can I do?
- If your friend is acting differently, talk to them and tell them that you have noticed. Ask them if they would like a chat and listen to them with no judgement. Remember that you’re not an expert, sometimes a listening ear is all that is needed. If you don’t know what to say, you can call our information line for advice and pass on our number to your friend.
I’m worrying a lot because of Covid-19, what can I do?
- We know that the current situation around coronavirus is worrying for many. During this difficult year it may have felt even harder than usual to take care of your mental health and wellbeing – but it’s important to remember that you are not alone and there are people available to help. Our services are still running, as are many others in the area.
I’m a professional, can I get in touch?
- Absolutely, if you would like more information on the work that we do for one of your own clients, please do get in touch on 01482 240133 or email info@heymind.org.uk. We also have a monthly update email for professionals, let us know if you would like to sign up to receive these.
I thought Mind wasn’t really for the general public to use but more for people with disabilities?
- A lot of people think this. We are here for everyone in the local area – whatever your age, race, religion, gender or sexuality.
Will I be talking to someone local?
Absolutely, we know it can be a daunting experience calling a helpline and speaking to someone hundreds of miles away, but be reassured that the people you are speaking to are based right in the heart of the local community.
I’m thinking of ending my life, what can I do?
If you don’t feel you can keep yourself safe right now, seek immediate help:
- Go to any Accident & Emergency (A&E) department.
- Call 999 and ask for an ambulance to take you to A&E.
- Ask someone else to call 999 for you or take you to A&E.
If you need urgent support but don’t want to go to A&E, you could:
- call Samaritans on freephone 116 123 – they’re always open and are there to listen
- contact your GP surgery and ask for an emergency appointment
- contact NHS 111 (England)
- contact the Adult Mental Health Support Line on Freephone 0800 138 0990
The information line is also jointly funded by Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
The Information Line is available to contact 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can contact them on 01482 240133. You can also email them on info@heymind.org.uk, text on 07520633477 or message them on Facebook @MindHEY. There is also a live chat function at www.heymind.org.uk