DURING mental health awareness week (May18-24) Wharfedale GPs are asking people to embrace kindness as a way to look after mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus pandemic.

As we all do our bit to control the spread of coronavirus, many people may be feeling lonely, worried or anxious about things such as health issues, family and employment. Acts of kindness to others, or being on the receiving end of an act of kindness, can give a big boost to people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Dr Angela Moulson, GP with special interest in mental health, said: “Since the start of this pandemic, we have seen local communities really pulling together and showing amazing acts of kindness from big things such as clap for carers, to smaller things like food donations. Kindness could be a quick daily phone call to your elderly neighbour, or collecting medicines for somebody who may not be able to get to their pharmacy. Small actions can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing and that of others.”

One in four people experience a mental health and wellbeing issue each year. Usual feelings of anxiety, stress or low mood may start to turn into an issue if they go on for a long time, or have an impact on day to day life.

Dr Moulson adds: “It is normal to struggle with your mental health and wellbeing, especially at what is a difficult time for many people and their families. There is lots going on for people at the moment, especially for those who are already vulnerable or isolated, so it’s important to look out for one another and check in on how people in your community are feeling. I want to remind people that mental health and wellbeing services are still here to help. That includes services for all ages, help if you are in crisis, or just need somebody to talk to.

“It is also important that with everyone talking about coronavirus, people use trusted sources to get information. For health and mental wellbeing advice and guidance, use nhs.uk/coronavirus.”

The website www.healthyminds.services/coronavirus - has details of which services you can get in touch with if you need help: for urgent help with your mental health, call First Response on 01274 221181. The service is open all day, every day for all ages; To speak to somebody about your mental health, call Guide-Line on 01274 594 594. The service is open 12pm to 12am every day, for all ages; For emotional wellbeing support for young people, visit Kooth.com