The event, organised by Wolverhampton Clinical Commissioning Group, will see charities, health organisations and education providers join forces to provide information and advice on a range of subject matters relating to mental health – such as young people struggling with their emotional wellbeing, recovery from mental health and addiction and accessing information and guidance.
It will also feature an exhibition of artwork by people battling addiction showing how recovery is achievable, the chance for shoppers to have a body MOT, massage or acupuncture, and the launch of the Wolverhampton Recovery College for people who struggle with mental health issues.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “I would encourage anybody who may be struggling with their mental health, or know somebody else who is and would like to help, to attend this event and find out more about the help and support which is available to them.
“These issues often go unnoticed, so it is important to gather as much information as possible so that you or a loved one can get help and support when it is most needed.”
The drop in event takes place at the Mander Centre on Thursday from 11am to 3pm and organisations taking part in the event include the CCG, council, Base 25, Adult Education Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton Homes, Recovery Near You/SUIT, HealthWatch, the Carer Support and Community Support teams, P3, Starfish Social Hub, Positive Participation, The Haven, ACCI, Women’s and Families Resource Centre, IPS, Thrive Into Work and more.
The theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day is Suicide Prevention – a theme similarly chosen by the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Claire Darke, at the start of her year in the role in May 2019.
She said: “It is great to see our city coming together in this way to raise awareness on World Mental Health Day. Poor mental health affects many people on a daily basis, and it is crucial that we, collectively, help learn the signs which could prevent people from suffering in silence.
“The message is clear; if you or someone you know is in a dark place, don’t suffer in silence – help and support is out there.”
Samaritans’ Wolverhampton provides confidential emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. However, many of its calls are not about suicide, but from people who feel upset or confused and want to talk to someone.
For help and support, please contact Samaritans Wolverhampton on 01902 426422 or free on 116 123, visit its office at 54 Newhampton Road West, log on to Samaritans or email jo@samaritans.org.
