It’s Mental Health Awareness Week (15th -22nd May), and anxiety is this year’s theme.

In a recent survey by the Mental Health Foundation, a quarter of adults said they felt so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they wanted to some or all of the time.

Anxiety is normal in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem. It can be experienced as mild uneasiness, a panic attack, or a range of feelings. Symptoms will be different for different people.

Anxiety can affect people’s day-to-day work or life. Therefore, we want to support colleagues, friends, and family who may experience it here at AMS.

You never know what historical events inform current behaviours or what someone is carrying, so being kind should always be our default position.

It’s all good when people tell you to take a walk… enjoy the sunshine… get more sleep… that’ll help with your anxiety. And sometimes it does! But it’s often not as simple as that, and it can feel like a monumental task to reach out for help.

Please don’t suffer in silence. There are so many fabulous organisations out there who can support you:

Mind: 0300 123 3393 – Open 9 am – 6 pm on weekdays

Samaritans: 116 123 – Always Open

Nabs: 0800 707 6607 – Open 9 am – 5.30 pm on weekdays

Anxiety UK: 03444775774 – Open 09.30 am – 17.30 pm on weekdays

The Mental Health Foundation also has some great tips if you need help or advice for yourself or how to help someone struggling.

When we are in crisis, we need emergency support. Awareness isn’t always enough, and access to support is crucial.

It’s essential to raise awareness and be open about Mental Health. We are all too happy to listen if someone says they have a bad back or a sore ankle, but if someone says they are struggling to cope, many people disappear or go with the horrible adage of “man up.”

A little chat can make a difference with someone in need. It can save a life.

Collette Symonds

Director