Mental Health Campaign to shine a “light through dark times” for Liverpool residents

A new campaign is launching to support the wellbeing of Liverpool residents.

Co-created by members of the public and Liverpool City Council’s Public Health team, the new campaign will help people to strengthen their mental health.

Developed in response to increasing mental health needs post-pandemic, it acknowledges the varying levels of support required – including help for those who may not even realise they need it.

Launching at the start of October to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week (3 – 10 October) and World Mental Health Day (10 October) the campaign will offer support for issues that significantly influence mental health such as money problems, housing and employment.

The visuals for the campaign show positive messages as light installations – portraying the idea of “light through dark times.”

The campaign will also provide support for other life challenges that can impact on wellbeing such as loneliness, relationship issues, bereavement, domestic violence, substance and alcohol misuse.

Alongside signposting to local services, the campaign will also focus on self-care and the practical actions people can take to improve their mental health.

The campaign is supported by Samaritans Liverpool and Merseyside, a charity which provides emotional support to anybody struggling to cope.

Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health, Cllr Frazer Lake said:

“People have a lot on their minds at the moment, so this campaign has been designed to help them recognise if and when extra help is needed.

It will support people to access the right support for them, promote how to look after their mental health and act as a reminder that it’s always ok to share how they’re feeling – even when struggling.”

Director of Public Health for Liverpool, Professor Matthew Ashton said: 

“Positive mental wellbeing is essential for good health, but due to the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis, Liverpool residents are experiencing varying degrees of mental distress.

Worry, fatigue and depleted resilience are an ordinary response to stressful situations, but if they continue over a long period of time and are left unaddressed, they can escalate into more serious and complex conditions – so prevention is critical.”

Development manager Rachel Howley said: 

“Life is increasingly hard for so many of us at the moment and, at Samaritans, we know the difference it can often make just to have somebody to talk to in confidence when you’re going through a difficult time. 

Whether it’s the rising cost of living, feeling isolated or anything else that’s troubling you, we are always available for you to talk about what’s on your mind. 

“Every call for help is answered by a trained volunteer and talking to us is always free and confidential.”

Visit https://kindtoyourmindliverpool.co.uk/ for more information. 

Samaritans listeners can also be contacted 24/7 on free phone 116 123. You can also email Jo@samaritans.org.