Loneliness is becoming much more widespread, warns Guernsey Mind

Historically seen as a problem for older people, the charity said loneliness was becoming much more widespread.

‘The picture we are seeing at the moment is quite a complex one, the world is a tough place and people are coming to us about a range of things which all contribute to a general feeling of isolation,’ said Guernsey Mind CEO Jo Cottell.

‘More islanders, including more younger people, have been reaching out.’

The comments come as Guernsey Mind launches its You Are Not Alone campaign to help islanders deal with loneliness in the depths of winter.

Those coming directly into contact with isolated islanders –such as hairdressers, therapists, taxi drivers, hospitality and retail staff, and sports coaches – are being given support to learn how to help their customers and clients.

There will also be 50 information boards around the island detailing who people can contact if they need support.

Guernsey Mind training officer Louisa Mace said that the charity was seeing a rising number of people, notably many younger islanders, accessing its services in recent times.

‘I think younger people seem to be far more aware of their mental health and societal attitudes towards it in general, which is why they are seeking help,’ she said.

‘Nowadays there is definitely more of an emphasis on companies and workplaces to offer some form of mental health support package, and it’s something that is asked about in interviews now.’

Ms Mace was delighted with how the training sessions went, with about 30 people taking part in each of the first two.

‘They have been really engaged,’ she said.

‘I think the most eye-opening thing for them was that, even when people are going out at Christmas and are seemingly being sociable. It doesn’t take away from the fact that they may be dealing with underlying feelings of isolation, and may need someone to talk to.’

Physiotherapist Liz Mahy attended the second training session.

She said that many of her clients opened up to her about their mental health during her average working day, and she was grateful for the chance to learn more about how to respond to them more effectively.

‘Usually people speak to me about work stresses, lack of sleep, or physical symptoms which are having an impact on their mental wellbeing,’ she said.

‘It’s good to know that it’s OK to ask questions and that by getting them to open up, it may make them feel better.’

Chiropractor Karen Jacobsen said the session had been useful.

‘Knowing where to signpost people in terms of where to go for help was the biggest thing for me.

‘We’re not trained in mental health assistance so this has been a good guide as to how to recognise possible symptoms in clients and being able to tell them how to get support if they need it.’

Guernsey Mind CEO Jo Cottell said the planned information boards, which include case studies, advice and useful contact information, would be put up in shop windows across the island.

‘They’re extremely accessible, people can just take a picture of them if they want to,’ she said.

‘We hope that this support is simple and practical enough that it gives people the help they need.’