How a new service will help residents with urgent mental health needs in South Tyneside and Sunderland

The service, provided by Mental Health Concern, will support people to address crisis situations in their lives and develop coping skills to deal with them should the same thing happen again in the future.

It is currently being offered remotely by phone or video call due to the pandemic, but will eventually be provided to adults, aged 18 or over, in the community to enhance mental health provision following the coronavirus crisis.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader of South Tyneside Council, with responsibility for Independence and Wellbeing, said: “There are times when people need help to overcome a crisis situation such as unemployment, family breakdown, a bereavement or periods of loneliness.

“Mental Health Concern can offer the support people need and signpost them to third sector community organisations that will be able to offer help in the longer term.

“We recognise the current crisis is leaving many people, especially some of our older residents, isolated which can impact negatively on mental health. I would encourage people to reach out and access the help they need.”

It is hoped that it will reduce pressure on hospital services and the need for clinical support.

Dr Jim Gordon, a GP at Imeary Street Surgery and clinical director for mental health and learning disabilities at NHS South Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Lockdown and the issues that it has presented over the past few months will have undoubtedly affected many people’s mental health.

“Emerging problems such as health related anxiety, social isolation and the emerging economic downturn can result in people presenting in crisis. Mental Health Concern will provide rapid personalised psychosocial support for those presenting in crisis across South Tyneside. They will work alongside our specialist mental health crisis service.

“Many people may have been ignoring or just coping with mental health issues until the lockdown restrictions ease, however, we urge people to seek the help they need as early as possible.”

People can contact the service via their GP, health or social care professionals.

To find out more contact Mental Health Concern on 0300 131 0333 or by email: [email protected]

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