Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW) is launching a campaign to raise awareness of mental wellbeing this winter.
The Trust’s annual Winter Wellness campaign aims to reach those who may be struggling this festive season and to offer advice on how to support loved ones who might be in need.
While the festive period can be a time of fun, it is also common for people feel lonely, stressed or worried. This year even more so, as we come to the end of one of the most difficult years many of us have faced.
CNTW wants people to know that no matter how negative a situation is, help is at hand, especially to those who might not be aware of where they to go for guidance.
Karen O’Rourke, Patient Information Centre Manager at CNTW, said: “Mental health can affect anyone at any time and in these challenging circumstances it’s understandable for people to be struggling.
“Christmas can be a time of immense pressure and it’s often easy to neglect your own personal wellbeing. There are also the darker nights, colder weather and hectic schedules that can make people feel increasingly isolated or lonely. We want people to know that they don’t have to feel like this and to make it as easy as possible for people to find the support they need.”
As part of the campaign, CNTW will be sending information leaflets and posters to a number of locations across the North East and Cumbria, including GP surgeries, libraries, universities and job centres.
There will also be wellbeing tips and how to help a loved one seek help on social media. Follow us on Instagram @cntw.nhs, Twitter @CNTWNHS and Facebook CNTW.
Organisations interested in taking part in the campaign can email [email protected] to request a free Winter Wellness resource pack or download a copy of the leaflet and poster at www.cntw.nhs.uk/winterwellness
CNTW also has self-help guides on a range of topics from anxiety to sleeping problems and stress. They are available in a range of formats, including audio and British Sign Language, and can be found online at www.cntw.nhs.uk/selfhelp
If you need urgent help, our Freephone numbers are available 24/7.
North Tyneside and Northumberland
• Adults – 0800 652 2861
• Children and young people – 0800 652 2862
• Text for Deaf service users – 07887 625 277
Newcastle and Gateshead
• Adults – 0800 652 2863
• Children and young people – 0800 652 2864
• Text for Deaf service users – 07919 228 548
North Cumbria
• Adults – 0800 652 2865
• Children and young people – 0800 652 2865
• Text for Deaf service users – 07795 656 226
Sunderland and South Tyneside
• Adults – 0800 652 2867
• Children and young people – 0800 652 2868
• Text for Deaf service users – 07889 036 280
CNTW is a leading provider of mental health and disability services in the North East and north Cumbria.