As part of the UK Government’s efforts to tackle health problems, including mental health, earlier in the cycle, the newly-created Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has launched the latest Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign to improve the general public’s mental wellbeing.
The new campaign aims to empower members of the general public to look after their mental health through tips and practical advice, helping to find what works for them in reducing stress and anxiety, boosting their mood, sleeping better, and feeling in greater control of their lives.
New research commissioned by OHID revealed nearly half of adults (49%) in England said the Covid-19 pandemic had a negative impact on their mental wellbeing.
In the same research, more than a third of all adults in England (34%) said they did not know what to do to improve their mental wellbeing. That equated to 15.1 million people.
Younger adults were the most significantly affected group with their mental health, with 57% of 18-34 year olds suggesting the pandemic had negatively impacted their mental health. Just under half (44%) reported not knowing what to do to help improve it.
This is the first campaign delivered by OHID since being officially launched on October 1, 2021. They have been set up with the aim of tackling health inequalities across the country.
Minister for Care and Mental Health, Gillian Keegan, said: “The public showed great resilience throughout the pandemic, but it has served as a stark reminder that we all need to look after ourselves not only physically, but mentally.
“There are simple steps we can all be taking to improve our mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. For anyone who is unsure what they can do, I urge you to visit Every Mind Matters and take advantage of the expert advice and practical tips available to you.”
Claire Murdoch, NHS National Director for Mental Health, added: “The last year has taken its toll on people’s mental health but NHS staff have responded rapidly to treat more people with mental health issues than ever before – rolling out 24/7 crisis lines across the country and mental health support teams in schools during the pandemic.
“The NHS is here for you, so if you’re struggling with anxiety and depression our rapidly expanding talking therapy services are available, while anyone who needs urgent help can access our 24/7 NHS crisis lines – available to people of all ages.
“I would encourage everyone to look after their mental health, and by answering 5 simple questions, get a tailored ‘mind plan’ which will give you tips to help boost your mood, sleep better and deal with stress and anxiety.”
Over 3.4 million individual Mind Plans have already been created since the campaign was first launched in October 2019.
