North Tyneside 0191 262 0305
Northumberland 01670 946 188

Mental Health Funding

Lack of funding for mental health in the charity sector

Lack of Funding for Mental Health in the Charity Sector in the North East

Anxious Minds News

In parts of the North East, kids might wait three years for mental health support. Shockingly, over 139,000 children have no stable home in the North East, with 13% across the UK sharing this fate. These facts cry out for more money to tackle the mental health crisis among at-risk populations.

Key Takeaways

  • The charity sector in the North East is facing significant challenges due to a lack of funding for mental health services.
  • The region is experiencing long waiting times for mental health assessments and treatment and high rates of child homelessness and temporary accommodation.
  • Increased funding is crucial to address the mental health crisis affecting vulnerable individuals and communities in the North East.
  • Innovative fundraising initiatives and greater donor engagement are needed to bridge the funding gap.
  • Collaboration between charities, the public sector and the community is essential to find sustainable solutions.

Introduction to the Charity Sector in the North East

In the North East, charities are key in offering mental health help to the local community. They know the area well and can address specific needs locals face. Their work is vital in meeting the increasing need for mental health care.

These charities help where there are gaps, as the public sector has limited resources. Their efforts make sure people and families get the much-needed support. But, they are under financial stress, which could mean a risk for their services.

Overview of the Charity Sector’s Role in Mental Health Support

Many VCSE groups work in the North East, from small ones to big ones. They deal with issues like mental health, better aging and cancer care, adding to public sector services.

Significance of Mental Health Services Provided by Charities

Charities in the North East are vital for mental health support. They bring around £845 million in value, with their workers making up 3% of the North’s jobs. There are also 154,400 volunteers in the area, providing 11 million hours of work each year.

lack of funding

The work of mental health charities is very important, filling in where the public sector can’t. The pandemic showed how working together can greatly help communities, proving the charity sector’s significance.

Lack of Funding for Mental Health in the Charity Sector

The North East’s charity sector is facing a big problem with funding for mental health. They mostly rely on short-term money, which makes it hard to offer long-lasting help. In a study, just 49% of charities believed they had enough money to help everyone who needed it.

Last year, 76% saw less money coming from the public. And only 15% actively looked for new ways to get funds.

There isn’t enough money to go around, leading to tough competition. A third of charities worry about not having enough funds, and one in five won’t be able to fully help those in need. This lack of funds means the sector is struggling to cope with the growing need for mental healthcare.

The government is trying to help by putting more cash into mental health. By 2023/24, funding should increase by £2 billion a year. And in 2020, they gave £500 million to make mental health services better.

In addition to this, special funding of £100 million was set aside for mental health support for parents-to-be. They also promised £300 million to improve mental health facilities by making sure each patient has their own room. Sadly, the NHS is cutting funds for mental health to cover shortages in other areas.

Campaigners and mental health charities are not happy. They say the government should spend at least £4.6 billion more each year on mental health by 2023/24. Mind, a key mental health charity, is worried about the money from the 2022 budget. They say increasing prices and growing needs are making things harder.

The NHS Confederation highlights the need for big changes in mental health services. They want to see new ways to fund and offer these services. 

There’s a vital need for more money in the mental health charity sector. This issue needs quick action and a mix of solutions. Governments, charities and the public must work together to solve it.

The difficulty in finding charity funding options is slowing things down for charities in need of financial assistance.

mental health funding

Impact on Service Delivery

The charity sector’s mental health funding shortage directly affects how services are delivered. Charities can’t help as many people or at the same level as before. They find it hard to keep their staff and run their needed programmes. As a result, people have to wait longer to get the help they need. This leaves them feeling unsupported.

But, the mental health field faces big problems with keeping and hiring staff. More and more people need mental health support, but there aren’t enough workers. The workforce size hasn’t grown in a decade, even though the need has. NHS England wants to increase staff numbers by 73% by 2036-37 to help deal with the demand. Yet, charities struggle more with getting and keeping qualified workers. They don’t have enough money to train new therapists.

“Charities such as Shout’s 24/7 text messaging mental health support have prevented the suicides of 126 people in the UK, saving an estimated £252m for the UK economy. Forecasts predict prevention of a further 288 suicides by 2025 through charity services like Shout.”

The lack of funds in charities is about more than just the money. It means less help for people, longer waits and more needs going unaddressed. Overcoming these issues calls for a big joint effort. We need to invest in the sector, help develop the staff and come up with new ways to make mental health care accessible.

Challenges Faced by Mental Health Charities

The charity sector in the North East does crucial work for those with mental health needs. Yet, it’s under severe strain mainly because of insufficient funds in the area.

Reliance on Short-term Funding and Grants

Mental health charities here often rely on short-term cash. It makes planning and offering long-term help tough. This shaky financial ground means they’re always hunting for new money. This effort takes away from helping those in need.

Competition for Limited Resources

In the charity world, everyone’s fighting for the same small pool of funds. It’s a tough battle for money. This not only stresses individual groups. It also stops them from working together to offer better help.

So, to deal with money problems, charities cut costs. But this may lower service quality and how easy it is for people to get help. The trouble is, more and more young people need mental health care.

Challenges Impact
Reliance on short-term funding and grants
  • Difficulty in planning and delivering long-term support
  • Constant need to seek new funding sources
  • Diversion of resources from core mission
Competition for limited resources
  • Strain on individual charities
  • Hindered ability to collaborate and provide coordinated support
Cost-cutting measures
  • Compromised quality and accessibility of services
  • Inability to meet the rising demand for mental health support

If these issues aren’t fixed, the vital work of mental health charities here will suffer. This means many vulnerable people won’t get the help they really need.

Voices from the Sector

Charity leaders in the North East talk about the big challenges they face. They don’t have enough money for mental health services. Their stories highlight the huge effect on people who need the services, and the struggle to keep vital programmes going.

Charlotte, CEO of a big mental health charity, says the pandemic made things worse. The people they help are more ill, and they have to wait longer for help. This makes running the service really hard.

John, a director at a youth mental health charity, is also worried. He talks about the lack of help for charities that are needed more now. They are working hard to help improve young people’s lives. But, the money they get is not enough.

Their voices call for quick help. They want to fix the money problem in mental health support. This is crucial to keep helping those who depend on them..

Addressing the Funding Gap

Experts in charities are asking for more government money for mental health services. They want mental health to be as important as physical health, like the NHS promised it would be by 2020. Even though the NHS plans to spend more on mental health over the next five years, there’s still a worry.

This extra money might just help the situation stay as it is. Right now, only four in ten people who need mental health help can get it.

Exploring Alternative Funding Models

Besides wanting more government help, charities are looking at new ways to get money. They want to rely less on short grants by finding other financial sources. They’re checking out social impact bonds and lining up local donations as good options. The goal is to set up a variety of ways to fund mental health services. This way, they won’t only depend on government funds.

The money issue is tough, but North East charities like Anxious Minds are determined. They’re pushing for more government aid and searching for new financial models. By involving the community, they’re hoping to bridge the funding gap. With these combined efforts, they aim to make mental health services more accessible.

“The charity sector plays a vital role in supporting the mental health of our communities, but we cannot do it alone. We need the government and the public to recognise the importance of this issue and provide the necessary funding and resources to make a real difference.”

– Edward Dean, CEO of Anxious Minds Mental Health Charity

The Role of Collaboration and Partnership

Strengthening partnerships between charities and the public sector is crucial for mental health services. By working together, they can provide better support by sharing resources. This way, communities can access the mental health help they need.

Innovative Solutions and Best Practices

Digital platforms like online counselling and mental health apps are becoming popular. They make it easier for charities to offer help that fits different needs. For example, they can run virtual support groups for everyone.

Charity groups are also working hard to show what really helps people. They use tactics that are proven to work, like spotting problems early or helping people before they get too bad. These efforts have been cutting down on the number of suicides.

There are also projects happening in the local area. These help people understand mental health better. The goal is to stop issues before they become too big to manage.

The charity sector in the North East is doing great work and sharing their successes. They aim to help everyone by working together. This way, there’s more support available for anyone who needs it.

Read more
veteran recovery college grant

Anxious Minds Veteran Recovery College Receives £40,000 Grant for Veteran Support in Northumberland

Anxious Minds News, Anxious Minds Posts, Therapy and Counselling, Veterans and Families Support

A Generous Contribution from the Veteran Foundation to Enhance Mental Health Services

In a significant development for veteran support in Northumberland, the Anxious Minds Veteran Recovery College has been awarded a substantial grant of £40,000. This funding, generously provided by the Veterans Foundation, was announced following a delightful visit from Simon, a representative of the Veteran Foundation.

The Purpose of the Grant: The grant is earmarked to fund a new position—an outreach worker—specifically for Northumberland. This role is pivotal in extending the college’s reach and effectiveness in supporting veterans. The outreach worker will focus on providing mental health and addiction support, a critical area where many veterans and their families often need assistance.

Anxious Minds Veteran Recovery College

Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Veterans: Veterans face unique challenges, including adjusting to civilian life and dealing with the mental health impacts of their service. Recognising these challenges, Anxious Minds Veteran Recovery College aims to use this funding to offer specialised support, including counselling, group therapy, and other mental health services.

The Role of the Outreach Worker: The outreach worker will play a key role in connecting with veterans and their families, understanding their needs, and providing tailored support. They will also work to raise awareness about mental health issues within the veteran community and guide individuals to appropriate resources.

A Testament to Community Collaboration: This grant is a shining example of how collaboration between non-profit organisations and foundations can lead to significant improvements in community services. It highlights the Veteran Foundation’s commitment to supporting veterans’ mental health and the proactive approach of the Anxious Minds Veteran Recovery College in seeking out such partnerships.

Conclusion: The £40,000 grant from the Veteran Foundation marks a new chapter for the Anxious Minds Veteran Recovery College and its efforts to support the veteran community in Northumberland. With this funding, the college is set to make a substantial impact on the lives of veterans and their families, addressing the crucial area of mental health and wellbeing.

Call to Action: The community is encouraged to support and engage with the college’s initiatives, ensuring that this effort has a lasting and positive impact on our veterans.

anxious minds veteran recovery college

Read more
mental health volunteers

Lack of Funding for Mental Health Charities: Addressing the Crisis

Anxious Minds Posts, Anxious Minds News, Personal Stories and Experiences

Introduction

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it often doesn’t receive the attention and resources it deserves. One of the major challenges faced by mental health organisations is the lack of funding. In this article, we will explore the pressing issue of the lack of funding for mental health charities. We will delve into the consequences of this issue, discuss potential reasons behind it, and explore possible solutions. Let us dive deeper into this crisis and shed light on the urgent need for increased financial support.

1. The Significance of Mental Health Charities

Mental health charities play a vital role in supporting individuals who are struggling with their mental well-being. These organisations provide a wide range of services, including counselling, therapy, helplines, support groups, and educational programs. They are instrumental in destigmatising mental health issues and promoting awareness. However, the lack of adequate funding poses a significant obstacle to their mission.

2. The Impact of Insufficient Funding

Insufficient funding severely limits the capacity of mental health charities to deliver their services effectively. It hampers their ability to hire qualified professionals, expand their reach, and invest in research and development. Without adequate resources, these organisations struggle to meet the growing demand for mental health support, leaving many individuals without access to the care they desperately need.

3. The Factors Contributing to the Lack of Funding

Several factors contribute to the lack of funding for mental health charities. Firstly, mental health issues have historically been overshadowed by physical health concerns, resulting in a disparity in funding allocation. Secondly, societal stigma surrounding mental health often leads to reduced public and private investment. Additionally, limited awareness of the impact of mental health on overall well-being further hinders fundraising efforts.

4. The Consequences of Underfunding Mental Health Charities

Underfunding mental health charities has far-reaching consequences. It perpetuates the cycle of inadequate care, leaving individuals without proper support and potentially exacerbating their conditions. It also places a burden on healthcare systems, as untreated mental health issues can lead to increased hospital admissions and higher healthcare costs. Moreover, the societal impact includes lost productivity, strained relationships, and diminished quality of life for individuals

5. Raising Awareness to Bridge the Funding Gap

To address the lack of funding for mental health charities, raising awareness is crucial. By educating the public about the importance of mental health and the vital role of these organisations, we can foster empathy and support. Through effective marketing campaigns, engaging social media content, and community events, we can bridge the funding gap and encourage donations.

6. The Role of Government in Addressing the Issue

Government intervention is essential in tackling the funding crisis in mental health charities. Policymakers must prioritise mental health funding and allocate sufficient resources to support these organisations. By establishing dedicated budgets, implementing tax incentives for donations, and collaborating with charitable foundations, governments can make a significant impact in addressing this pressing issue.

7. Collaborative Efforts and Community Support

Addressing the lack of funding for mental health charities requires collective action. Collaboration between different stakeholders, including individuals, businesses, and community organisations, is key. By coming together and organising fundraising events, donation drives, and volunteer initiatives, communities can rally behind mental health causes and provide the necessary support.

8. The Importance of Corporate Social Responsibility

Businesses have a crucial role to play in supporting mental health charities. Through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, companies can allocate funds, resources, and expertise to mental health organisations. Additionally, partnering with charities and implementing workplace mental health programs can create a positive impact on employees’ well-being while addressing the funding gap.

9. The Need for Grant Programs and Philanthropy

Grant programs and philanthropic efforts are vital in sustaining mental health charities. Foundations, philanthropists, and grant-making organisations can provide significant financial support to these organisations. By offering grants, scholarships, and funding opportunities, they enable mental health charities to continue their important work and expand their reach.

10. Innovative Fundraising Strategies

Innovation in fundraising strategies can be a game-changer for mental health charities. Embracing digital platforms, crowdfunding campaigns, and creative events can attract a wider audience and generate more donations. By leveraging technology and adopting modern fundraising techniques, organisations can overcome the limitations of traditional fundraising methods and secure the funds needed to make a difference.

11. The Power of Public-Private Partnerships

Public-private partnerships can be instrumental in addressing the lack of funding for mental health charities. By fostering collaborations between governmental agencies, businesses, and non-profit organisations, we can combine resources, expertise, and influence to tackle the funding crisis. These partnerships can result in innovative solutions and sustainable funding models for mental health initiatives.

12. Advocacy for Policy Change

Advocacy plays a crucial role in influencing policy change and securing adequate funding for mental health charities. By engaging in grassroots movements, lobbying efforts, and awareness campaigns, we can urge policymakers to prioritise mental health funding. Sharing personal stories, statistical data, and research findings can effectively illustrate the need for increased financial support.

13. Addressing Stigma and Encouraging Support

Stigma surrounding mental health often leads to reduced funding and support for charities. It is essential to combat this stigma through education, open discussions, and challenging misconceptions. By fostering a supportive environment and encouraging empathy, we can break down barriers and create a society that values mental health, leading to increased funding for charities.

14. The Role of Media and Influencers

Media and influencers have a powerful platform to raise awareness and mobilise support for mental health causes. Through interviews, articles, social media campaigns, and collaborations, they can amplify the voices of mental health charities and attract public attention. By using their influence for the greater good, media and influencers can drive positive change and secure funding for these vital organisations

15. The Role of Technology in Fundraising

Technology offers numerous opportunities to enhance fundraising efforts for mental health charities. Online platforms, mobile apps, and crowdfunding websites provide accessible channels for collecting donations. Additionally, utilising data analytics and social media marketing strategies can help charities reach a broader audience and increase their funding potential.

16. Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

Transparency and accountability are essential in building trust and attracting donors. Mental health charities should prioritize financial transparency, providing clear reports on how donations are used. By demonstrating the impact of their work and showcasing success stories, organisations can instill confidence in potential donors and secure long-term funding.

17. Educating the Public on the Impact of Funding

Educating the public about the direct impact of funding on mental health charities is crucial. Highlighting the outcomes of their programs, the number of lives transformed, and the positive societal effects can inspire individuals to contribute. By effectively communicating the value of their work, charities can generate support and secure the resources needed to continue their mission.

18. The Importance of Long-Term Commitment

Addressing the lack of funding for mental health charities requires a long-term commitment from all stakeholders. Sustainable funding models, multi-year grants, and ongoing support are necessary to ensure the stability and growth of these organisations. By prioritising mental health in funding strategies and sustaining financial support over time, we can make a lasting difference.

19. International Cooperation and Global Initiatives

The lack of funding for mental health charities is a global issue that demands international cooperation. Governments, non-profit organisations, and individuals worldwide must come together to advocate for increased funding and support. Global initiatives, partnerships between countries, and sharing best practices can foster collaboration and create a collective impact in addressing this crisis.

20. Research and Development in Mental Health

Investing in research and development is crucial for advancing mental health care and support. By allocating funds to research institutions and collaborating with academia, mental health charities can contribute to the development of innovative treatments and interventions. This research-driven approach can attract further funding and create opportunities for groundbreaking breakthroughs in mental health.

21. Empowering Individuals to Take Action

Encouraging individuals to take action is essential in addressing the lack of funding for mental health charities. By providing volunteer opportunities, organising fundraising events, and facilitating grassroots initiatives, organisations can empower people to make a difference. Through collective efforts, small contributions can add up to significant support for mental health causes.

22. Inspiring Stories of Overcoming Challenges

Sharing inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome mental health challenges can have a profound impact on fundraising efforts. Personal narratives highlighting the transformative power of mental health support can evoke empathy and inspire generosity. By showcasing real-life examples of success and resilience, charities can connect with donors on a deeper emotional level and motivate them to contribute.

23. The Economic Case for Funding Mental Health Charities

Investing in mental health charities makes economic sense. By providing early intervention and support, these organisations can prevent more severe mental health issues and reduce the burden on healthcare systems. The economic benefits include increased productivity, reduced healthcare costs, and improved overall societal well-being. Communicating this economic case can garner support from policymakers and funders.

24. Breaking Down Barriers to Access

In addition to funding, addressing barriers to access is crucial in supporting mental health charities. By advocating for affordable and inclusive mental health services, organisations can ensure that individuals from all backgrounds can receive the care they need. Breaking down cultural, social, and financial barriers will contribute to a more equitable and accessible mental health support system.

25. Celebrating Successes and Spreading Hope

Lastly, celebrating the successes of mental health charities and spreading hope is essential. Sharing stories of individuals who have benefited from these organisations can inspire others to support their cause. By highlighting the positive impact of mental health charities and the transformative journeys of those they’ve helped, we can foster a sense of hope and encourage continued funding and support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Q: Why is there a lack of funding for mental health charities?
    • A: The lack of funding for mental health charities can be attributed to several factors, including historical underfunding compared to physical health, stigma surrounding mental health, and limited awareness of the impact of mental health on overall well-being.
  2. Q: How does the lack of funding affect mental health charities?
    • A: Insufficient funding hampers the ability of mental health charities to provide effective services, hire qualified professionals, and expand their reach. It leaves many individuals without access to the necessary support, perpetuating the cycle of inadequate care.
  3. Q: What can individuals do to support mental health charities?
    • A: Individuals can support mental health charities by making donations, volunteering their time and skills, participating in fundraising events, and spreading awareness about mental health issues. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference.
  4. Q: How can businesses contribute to funding mental health charities?
    • A: Businesses can contribute to funding mental health charities through corporate social responsibility initiatives, partnerships, and workplace mental health programs. They can allocate funds, resources, and expertise to support these organisations and promote employee well-being.
  5. Q: Are there government initiatives to address the lack of funding for mental health charities?
    • A: Governments play a crucial role in addressing the funding crisis. They can establish dedicated budgets for mental health, provide tax incentives for donations, and collaborate with charitable foundations to ensure sustainable funding for mental health charities.
  6. Q: How can technology be utilised to enhance fundraising efforts for mental health charities?
    • A: Technology offers various avenues for fundraising, including online platforms, mobile apps, and crowdfunding websites. Data analytics and social media marketing strategies can be employed to reach a wider audience and generate more donations.

Conclusion

The lack of funding for mental health charities poses a significant challenge to addressing the growing mental health crisis. However, through collective action, increased awareness, and innovative fundraising strategies, we can bridge the funding gap and ensure that these vital organisations can continue their important work. By advocating for policy change, engaging stakeholders, and promoting the economic benefits of mental health support, we can create a society that prioritises mental well-being and provides the necessary resources for mental health charities to thrive.

Read more
Newcastle mental health crisis in the north east

Mental Health Crisis in the North East

Anxious Minds Posts, Anxious Minds News, Personal Stories and Experiences, Therapy and Counselling

Mental Health Crisis in the North East: Understanding the Challenges and Seeking Solutions

Introduction

In recent years, the North East region has been grappling with a significant mental health crisis. The combination of social, economic, and cultural factors has contributed to the rise in mental health issues among the population. This article aims to shed light on the challenges faced by the people in the North East regarding mental health and explore potential solutions to address this crisis.

Mental Health Crisis in the North East: An Overview

The North East, known for its natural beauty and diverse communities, is unfortunately facing a profound mental health crisis. The region encompasses several states, each with its unique challenges, but a common thread of mental health issues runs through them all. High rates of unemployment, poverty, substance abuse, and social isolation have significantly impacted the mental well-being of the people living in the North East.

Factors Contributing to the Mental Health Crisis

Economic Disparities: A Vicious Cycle

One of the primary factors fueling the mental health crisis in the North East is the prevalent economic disparities. The region has been historically marginalised, with limited access to resources, opportunities, and quality healthcare. This cycle of poverty and limited economic growth creates an environment where mental health issues thrive.

Cultural Stigma: Breaking the Silence

In many communities within the North East, there exists a cultural stigma surrounding mental health. Traditional beliefs and societal norms often discourage individuals from seeking help or openly discussing their struggles. This silence perpetuates the cycle of suffering and prevents access to the necessary support and treatment.

Lack of Mental Health Infrastructure

The North East region suffers from a severe lack of mental health infrastructure, including psychiatric hospitals, clinics, and trained professionals. This scarcity of resources makes it challenging for individuals to access timely and appropriate mental health care.

Geographic Isolation and Connectivity Issues

The geographical isolation of the North East, with its challenging terrain and limited connectivity, poses a significant obstacle in providing mental health services to remote areas. Many communities remain underserved, making it difficult for individuals in need to reach out for help.

The Impact on Individuals and Communities

The mental health crisis in the North East has far-reaching consequences for individuals and communities alike. The prevalence of mental health issues has resulted in increased rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicide. Families are torn apart, and the overall well-being and productivity of the region are compromised.

Seeking Solutions: Addressing the Mental Health Crisis

Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma

To address the mental health crisis in the North East, it is crucial to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with mental health. Educational campaigns, community dialogues, and media initiatives can play a pivotal role in challenging existing beliefs and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being.

Strengthening Mental Health Services

Investing in mental health infrastructure is vital to provide accessible and quality care to the population. The establishment of psychiatric hospitals, counselling centres, and rehabilitation facilities will contribute to a comprehensive mental health support system. Furthermore, training and recruiting mental health professionals from within the region will help address the shortage of experts.

Integrating Mental Health into Education

Introducing mental health education in schools and colleges is essential to promote early intervention and equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to support their own mental well-being and that of others. By normalising conversations about mental health from an early age, we can create a more empathetic and supportive society.

Collaborating with Community Organisations

Engaging community organisations, NGOs, and local leaders is critical to tackle the mental health crisis effectively. These organisations can play a significant role in creating awareness, organising support groups, and facilitating access to mental health services. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organisations can lead to a more holistic approach to addressing the mental health crisis in the North East.

Telemedicine and Digital Solutions

Given the geographical challenges faced by the region, leveraging telemedicine and digital solutions can be a game-changer in improving mental health services. Telepsychiatry platforms and mobile mental health applications can bridge the gap between remote areas and mental health professionals, providing individuals with the support they need, regardless of their location.

Promoting Holistic Well-being

Addressing the mental health crisis requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond medical interventions. Promoting holistic well-being through initiatives like yoga, mindfulness practices, and community-based recreational activities can help individuals build resilience and cope with stress. These approaches empower individuals to take an active role in managing their mental health.

Mental Health Crisis in the North East: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Q: What are the main causes of the mental health crisis in the North East? A: The mental health crisis in the North East is primarily caused by economic disparities, cultural stigma, lack of mental health infrastructure, and geographic isolation.
  2. Q: How does the mental health crisis impact communities in the North East? A: The mental health crisis has wide-ranging consequences, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide, leading to societal disruption and diminished well-being.
  3. Q: What steps can be taken to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in the North East? A: Raising awareness, promoting education, and engaging in open conversations about mental health are essential to reduce the stigma and create a supportive environment.
  4. Q: What measures can be implemented to improve mental health services in the North East? A: Strengthening mental health infrastructure, training and recruiting professionals, integrating mental health education, and utilising telemedicine and digital solutions are key measures to improve mental health services.
  5. Q: How can community organisations contribute to addressing the mental health crisis? A: Community organisations can play a vital role in creating awareness, organising support groups, and facilitating access to mental health services in collaboration with government agencies and healthcare providers.
  6. Q: What role does early intervention and education play in tackling the mental health crisis? A: Early intervention and mental health education are crucial in promoting awareness, providing support, and equipping individuals with the necessary tools to manage their mental well-being.

Conclusion

The mental health crisis in the North East is a complex issue rooted in economic, cultural, and infrastructure challenges. By raising awareness, reducing stigma, strengthening mental health services, integrating mental health education, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, we can strive towards a healthier and more resilient region. It is crucial to prioritise the mental well-being of individuals in the North East and work towards creating a supportive and inclusive society.

Read more
mental health challenge

Support Mental Health Challenge

Anxious Minds Posts, Anxious Minds News, Mental Health Resources, Self Care and Wellness

Introduction:

The Support Mental Health Challenge is a call to action for individuals to come together and support one another in addressing mental health issues. Mental health is a critical component of our overall wellbeing, but unfortunately, it is often overlooked or stigmatised. The Support Mental Health Challenge aims to raise awareness about mental health and generate funds that can help improve mental health services.

The purpose of this blog post is to provide an overview of the Support Mental Health Challenge and its importance, along with actionable steps that readers can take to get involved and support the cause.

Why Mental Health Matters:

Mental health issues can have a significant impact on individuals and society as a whole. Mental health conditions can impact an individual’s ability to work, learn, and engage in social activities. They can also lead to physical health issues and a lower quality of life. Despite the prevalence of mental health issues, there is still a significant amount of stigma surrounding them, which can make it difficult for individuals to seek the support they need.

Raising awareness about mental health is critical to reducing this stigma and ensuring that individuals feel comfortable seeking help when they need it. By taking part in the Support Mental Health Challenge, individuals can help to raise awareness and promote the importance of mental health support.

How to Get Involved in the Support Mental Health Challenge:

Getting involved in the Support Mental Health Challenge is simple. Individuals can make a donation to  Anxious Minds or they can take part in a fundraising event. Even small donations can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are struggling with mental health issues.

In addition to donating, individuals can also show support for the challenge by spreading the word and encouraging others to get involved. Sharing the challenge on social media or hosting a fundraising event can help to raise awareness and generate funds for mental health services.

Supporting Mental Health Services:

The funds raised through the Support Mental Health Challenge site will be used to improve mental health services in the community. These funds may be used to support mental health Services, research, or outreach programs. Improved mental health services can help to ensure that individuals who are struggling with mental health issues receive the support and care they need.

By supporting mental health services, individuals can help to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to achieve optimal mental health. Improved mental health services can also have a positive impact on the community as a whole by reducing the impact of mental health issues on individuals and society.

Taking Care of Your Own Mental Health:

In addition to supporting mental health services, it is essential to take care of your own mental health. This includes practicing self-care, seeking help when needed, and supporting others who may be struggling with mental health issues.

Self-care can take many forms, including exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. It is essential to take time for yourself and prioritize your mental health needs.

Seeking help when needed is also critical. If you are struggling with mental health issues, it is essential to seek the support of a mental health professional. They can provide the guidance and support you need to manage your condition effectively.

Finally, supporting others who may be struggling with mental health issues is critical. By showing empathy and understanding, we can help to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and create a more supportive environment for those who are struggling.

Conclusion:

The Support Mental Health Challenge is an opportunity for individuals to come together and support one another in addressing mental health issues. By raising awareness and generating funds for mental health services, we can help to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need. By taking care of our own mental health and supporting others, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for those who are struggling. Join the Support Mental Health Challenge today and make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with mental health issues

Read more
raising funds for mental health

EE & BT Cycled 56+ Miles For North East Mental Health

Anxious Minds News
EE & BT Staff Cycle 56+ Miles in Impressive Fundraiser for Anxious Minds In a remarkable display of dedication and community support, employees from telecommunications giants EE and BT have completed an extraordinary cycling challenge, covering over 56 miles to raise funds for Anxious Minds, a leading mental health charity in the North East. This ambitious endeavor has already generated an impressive sum of over £2,500, with donations still pouring in. Key highlights of this fundraising event include:
  1. Distance Covered: The participants cycled an impressive 56+ miles, showcasing their commitment to the cause and their physical endurance.
  2. Funds Raised: As of the latest update, the cycling challenge has raised over £2,500, significantly contributing to Anxious Minds’ efforts in supporting mental health initiatives.
  3. Corporate Collaboration: The event demonstrates a strong partnership between major corporations (EE and BT) and a local charity, highlighting the importance of corporate social responsibility in addressing community needs.
  4. Awareness Building: Beyond fundraising, this event has likely increased awareness about mental health issues and the work of Anxious Minds in the community.
  5. Employee Engagement: The participation of staff members from EE and BT indicates a positive workplace culture that encourages community involvement and charitable activities.
  6. Ongoing Support: The phrase “so far” suggests that fundraising efforts are continuing, potentially leading to an even greater final donation amount.
This cycling challenge serves as an inspiring example of how businesses and their employees can make a significant impact on local charities and important causes like mental health support. The success of this event may pave the way for future collaborations between Anxious Minds and other corporate partners. Anxious Minds has expressed its heartfelt gratitude to all participants and donors, acknowledging the tremendous effort and generosity shown. This funding will undoubtedly bolster the charity’s ability to provide crucial mental health services and support to those in need across the North East region.
Read more
mental health lottery

Anxious Minds Launches Mental Health Lottery

Anxious Minds News, Anxious Minds Posts

For Better North East Mental Health

The Mental Health Lottery was founded to support mental health charity Anxious Minds a multi-award winning charity founded by an Ex Veteran Edward Dean. Eddie used his war pension to set up the charity Anxious Minds in 2015 were he still works as a volunteer Chief Officer. He struggled for over 2 years to get any support for his Mental Health after retiring from the Armed Forces (Army infantry) on completion of 22 years service. This is what the Prime Minister Theresa May had to say about Edward:
You have shown remarkable dedication in ensuring veterans can access mental health support with your charity Anxious Minds. You know from first-hand experience what a difference this help can make and now, thanks to your hard work, veterans living in the North East can also benefit from this same support. I want to thank you for your inspiring commitment to supporting men and women, like yourself, who have risked their lives to serve our country.
Edward says: Finding mental health support before the outbreak of COVID-19 was next to impossible with ever-growing waiting lists of over a year for some adults and a lot longer for children with mental health services in some areas. Millions of pounds in donations go into supporting some of the larger mental health charities across the UK but we see very little change when trying to access professional mental health services such as counselling and psychotherapy. The Mental Health Lottery was set up to raise funds for Anxious Minds, who provide counselling and psychotherapy, and support for alcohol reduction like a lot of other smaller charities they get very little in funding and support a large number of people from some of the most deprived and hard-hit areas of the North East. We simply cannot afford to run television and radio ads and go, door-to-door finding supporters, as we barely have enough funds to keep the lights on. Like a lot of the smaller charities, we are run mainly by volunteers like myself, who simply want to provide the support that’s needed when needed to the people we serve. So when you play The Mental Health Lottery you’re playing to support all the volunteers in them smaller charities that go in day after day and ask for nothing in return except for the chance to keep our centres open and allow us to do so. The Mental Health Lottery supports Anxious Minds to grow its services across the North East and in return, my guarantee to you is that 100% of money raised will go on proving more support to people we serve, people struggling from mental health across the North East. Every mind matters. Eddie Chief Officer Anxious Minds www.mentalhealthlottery.co.uk
Read more

All Rights Reserved Anxious Minds Registered Charity Number 1164040