Mental Health strategy sets out issues for improvement

BETTER early intervention is key to tackling long-term mental health problems in Guernsey, a new strategy has revealed.

HSSD's strategy for mental health and wellbeing highlighted quick action as vital for residents of all ages as well as breaking the associated stigma and discrimination.

In its 181-page strategy research report, Health and Social Services warned that there was lack of primary care psychological therapy services for young people.

It also warned that the primary care charging system appeared to act as a deterrent to people seeking early advice and those 'stepping down' from secondary care.

For older residents suffering from dementia, the HSSD strategy said that the greatest challenge was the lack of community support to maintain sufferers in their own homes.