Mental Health and Domestic Abuse Support
4 April 2020
We are ten days into the official UK lockdown and many of our lives have changed drastically.
Our community is, for the most part, staying at home.
We are all more at risk of feeling isolated, anxious, and depressed.
And for some members of our community, such as those already experiencing mental health issues or those in abusive households, lockdown is an even more challenging experience.
It is more important than ever to tell the people you know that help and support is available. Many organisations are working overtime to ensure that everyone has the support they need during this time.
Please do not hesitate to reach out for help if you, or anyone you know, is in crisis.
General mental health support
B&NES Council - https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/care-and-support-and-you/mental-health
Bath Mind - https://www.bathmind.org.uk/advice-and-support/coronavirus/
Domestic abuse
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse themselves, or who is aware is of a victim who needs support, can contact independent charity Southside on 01225 331243 or [email protected] to get in touch with an advisor.
Voices are another local organisation who are providing support in this area. More information can be found here: http://www.voicescharity.org/
More national level help is available by calling the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or, in an emergency, dial 999.
If a victim is facing an emergency and needs help from 999, but they can't speak, they can use the Silent Solution. Follow these guide lines to make sure the operator knows you need help without using your voice.
For information about Southside’s services during Coronavirus, visit http://south-side.org.uk/southsides-response-to-the-coronavirus-outbreak/ and http://south-side.org.uk/coronavirus-update-20-03-2020/.
Eating disorders
The lockdown emphasis on food and exercise can make life harder for those with an eating disorder, as this article vividly explains.
The ABC Support Hub (Anorexia & Bulimia Care) is offering support via Skype video calls. Visit their website for more information and to book a session.
SWEDA (Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association) is committed to helping everyone in Somerset affected by eating disorders. Visit their website here.
Young people
For information on local support services specifically tailored to the needs of young people, please visit:
Boys in Mind (Girls Mind Too) - https://boysinmind.co.uk/
Off the Record - https://www.offtherecord-banes.co.uk/
INFORMATION ON CORONAVIRUS:
