Mental Health: Largest investment in history of devolution
This pandemic and the resulting lockdowns will have undoubtedly impacted many people’s mental health, especially during the cold and dark winter months. I know that many people are feeling particularly lonely and isolated at the moment.
Without the opportunity to see our friends and loved ones in person, many of us are missing out on the much needed conversation this time of year.
The Scottish Government is facing this problem head on by announcing a £120 million Mental Health Recovery and Renewal Fund – this is the single largest investment in mental health in the history of devolution.
This investment adds to the £142.1 million that the SNP Government allocated to mental health in the 2021-22 budget, bringing the total spend on mental health services to in excess of £1.2 billion.
Additional programmes have been put in place during the lockdowns, from the NHS24 Mental Health Hub to a 24/7 service, to increasing the capacity of the Breathing Space helpline and creating extra capacity for Computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CCBT).
Across Scotland Mental Health professionals have adapted to helping people and providing vital services under lockdown restrictions.
The SNP Government’s Recovery Plan for Mental Health is aiming to remove the stigma of mental health, whilst also providing real investment for mental health programmes across Scotland.
The SNP is working hard to help people experiencing mental health problems, investing in enhanced community support, and recognising the importance of supporting people at the earliest possible stage.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing mental health problems as a result of the pandemic it is important to reach out for help.
There is hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. With more and more people being vaccinated every day, we can see an end to this pandemic.
In the meantime, it’s important to continue following lockdown guidance and to reach out to friends and family in this difficult time.
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