This is the start of Mental Health Awareness week (18 – 22 May) and never before has it been so important for our Council to alert staff to the issues, guidance and support in relation to mental health.
Dumfries and Galloway Council is committed to promoting and supporting a mentally healthy workforce and have taken this opportunity to highlight the importance of mental health and raise awareness about the impact poor mental health can have on us.
The theme for 2020 is “Kindness”. We recognise that protecting our mental health is key to us coping with and recovering from the coronavirus pandemic- with the psychological and social impacts likely to outlast the physical symptoms of the virus.
A pandemic such as the current coronavirus can be scary and affect our mental health. While it is important to stay informed, there are also many things we can do to support and manage our wellbeing during such times.
Work is generally good for our mental health: it can provide a source of income, a sense of identity, friendship and engagement with others, a steady routine and structure and opportunities to gain achievements. With many people across the region not working at this time, it is important that we recognise the impact that this may be having on our mental health and the support available.
Leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Elaine Murray said “One of our Council’s top priorities is to protect our most vulnerable people. We want to use this campaign as an opportunity to show we are absolutely committed to health and wellbeing and we are particularly keen to overcome any additional difficulties experienced at the current time. Every day this week we will focus on a different aspect of wellbeing and promote how we can all stay mentally healthy during the lockdown period.”
Depute Leader, Rob Davidson, said “It is important to remember that everyone’s experience of mental health is different. Two people may have entirely different symptoms and coping mechanisms. It is a very difficult time for people dealing with the restrictions of lockdown and not able to see friends and family. However, we have learnt that amid the uncertainty, there is also community spirit, support, and hope which brings huge positivity and increased social connection and self-esteem.”
