Argyll and Bute Council has re-affirmed its support for Scottish Mental Health Week which takes place from 8 – 14 October with World Mental Health Day on Wednesday the 10th of October.

On 23rd August Argyll and Bute Council publicly pledged to tackle the stigma associated with mental ill-health by signing the ‘see me’ pledge and committing their support to taking action.

The ‘see me’ awareness campaign aims to eliminate the stigma and discrimination which can be associated with mental ill-health. One in four people will experience mental ill health in the course of their lives and the campaign sets out to ensure that all organisations value and include people with mental health problems and those who support them.

As part of its commitment, the council produces a monthly Mental Health Newsletter in collaboration with NHS Highland, to provide updates on the work being carried out in relation to mental health across the area.  The council also offers employees a counselling service which provides independent, confidential support, information and help. Help is available by telephone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with access to personal counselling, and internal monthly briefing ‘cascades’ which raise awareness of the ‘see me’ campaign and publicise the help that is available to people suffering from mental ill-health.

Lead councillor for Adult Care, Anne Horn said

‘Scottish Mental Health Week is a great opportunity for everyone in Argyll and Bute to get involved with the 'See me' campaign and help end the stigma surrounding mental ill-health. The Council will play its part in changing attitudes and in ending discrimination.’