TODAY is Time To Talk Day, where we get the nation talking about mental health.

Toller Councillor Fozia Shaheen, who is also a mental health champion, has the following advice about the importance of good mental health, particularly during the pandemic:

“Mental Health Champion.

“Mental Health is everyone’s business.

“Mental Health issues can affect anyone at any time in their lives.

“Good mental health is vital to our physical wellbeing and being healthy.

“It is imperative that we talk more about our Mental Health and the connection to our overall wellbeing and ability to contribute to society, be with our loved ones and those we care for and work with.

“All too often the daily struggle for people with mental health issues could be improved, and indeed prevent worsening, if problems are shared with those around them and people have the information to get help early or understand how to help themselves stay well.

“More than ever before due to the global pandemic people need our support.

“As a mental health champion for the district I feel honoured I have been able to help and support people stay well throughout the Pandemic thus far.

“With mental health on the rise due to these very unprecedented times, “I am delighted to share I have lead on a number on initiatives for example 1-2-1 sessions, providing a befriending service offering support and a listening ear to many people, setting up Mental Health and Wellbeing sessions which include Zumba and fitness and therapies/information sessions on how to stay well.

“The pandemic has highlighted further the inequalities in housing and social isolation Is there, so therefore it is important we provide early interventions and support people as this will have an detrimental effect on their mental health post Covid too.

“It is important we encourage people to take up the social model and rather than the medical.

“There are a number of mental health support services out there to help and support those in our district. Nobody should suffer in silence. We are here to support. Please reach out.

“Mental wellbeing is much more than simply not being mentally ill. It is about having positive self-esteem, good coping mechanisms and feeling in control.

“It's OK not to be OK!”