Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP) are raising awareness of the local support that is available this World Mental Health Day.

The annual awareness event is being held worldwide on Sunday, October 10 and is everyone’s opportunity to acknowledge the issues around mental health, and also take time to reflect on how we look after each other’s emotional wellbeing, as well as our own.

CWP interim chief executive, Tim Welch, said: “This Sunday is World Mental Health Day. I feel strongly that a key part of my role is encouraging everyone to look after their mental health, especially after the events of the last 18 months.

"Find an approach that works for you and helps boost your mood, sleep better, and manage stress and anxiety.”

In terms of local support in Wirral, there are number of ways people can find the right support for them.

CWP’s 24/7 all-age urgent mental health crisis line is available to call on freephone 0800 145 6485.

When a person's mental health deteriorates quickly and severely, this can be called a mental health crisis. It can be important to access support quickly. The Trust’s service supports people to access the help they need.

For people feeling anxious or stressed and who feel they need support – the local Shout text messaging service is available. Residents of Wirral can text the word “Blue” to 85258 to start a text conversation with a trained volunteer who will provide free, confidential support. The service is open 24/7 and can signpost people to other local relevant support if appropriate.

In Wirral, Compañeros crisis café is open to anyone aged 18 or over who feels they are experiencing a mental health crisis or is in emotional distress. It offers a welcoming environment to visitors and a safe space to connect with others experiencing similar issues. It is open from 1pm to 10pm and can be contacted on: 0151 488 8135.

A special launch event is being held at Compañeros on Friday, October 15. All are welcome to come along to see what the new space will offer. The event will run from 1pm to 5pm at the café at 2a Price Street, Hamilton Square, CH41 6JN.

There are also IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) services that are available across Wirral for those experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. To find your local service, please visit the NHS website at: www.nhs.uk/mental-health

Tim added: “There are a wide range of options available for those who feel they need support or are concerned about somebody they know. What is vitally important is that those who feel they need support do reach out. Help is available and you are not alone.

“We are also using the opportunity to take part in a number of events taking place locally, so please do keep an eye out on our social media channels to find out more.”