Neil Hamilton MS offers support for Mental Health Awareness Week

NEIL HAMILTON, MS for Mid & West Wales, and Leader of UKIP Wales has added his voice to calls for wider community support for people severely affected by mental illness.

Mr Hamilton, a member of the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs committee, is backing Mental Health Awareness Week which runs from May 18 – 24.

He said:
“In these difficult and challenging times many people are feeling the stresses and strains caused by the coronavirus pandemic. It is absolutely vital that help is available for those who are struggling.
“I am pleased to support Mental Health Awareness Week and welcome this year’s focus on kindness and a push for wider community support. It comes at a time when it is needed more than ever and people of all ages need to know they are not alone.

“I am also backing a call by the Farmers’ Union of Wales who are urging farmers to be kind to themselves as they cope with the impact from Covid–19.”

The Mental Health Foundation say wider community support for people experiencing severe mental illness can provide an opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive.

Access to the best possible treatment, at the right time, is vital. However, this on its own, does not deliver a good quality of life. Housing, employment, finances and support networks also play a crucial part.
The future of mental health care is community-based and locally focused. It meets all the needs of those of us living with mental illness.

FUW President Glyn Roberts is urging farmers to be kind to themselves.
He said: “if you feel like the world is crashing down on you, talk about it if you can and try not to put yourself under too much pressure. Along with the body, the mind is the best bit of kit a farmer can have. But it is also the hardest to maintain. We must listen to our body as well. It will tell you when you need to slow down and look after yourself.

“The single most effective thing you can do to help yourself to keep the mind healthy, is to talk. Talk about your struggles and about what you are feeling. Telling someone what you are going through is one of the biggest steps you can take – you will feel a weight lift off your shoulders.

“Equally, if you notice a family member or friend struggling – speak to them. Give them a call, have a virtual coffee catch-up

“One thing that we have seen all over the world, is that kindness is prevailing – especially in uncertain times. And amid the fear, there is still our community, support and hope. Better days are to come – a storm is usually followed by a rainbow. Be kind to yourself and others and remember – it’s ok not to be ok.”