Plan to treat mental health better

Widening the focus from treating islanders reaching crisis point, to also providing more earlier support in a co-ordinated, community-based way, has to be a better solution.

In fact prevention, awareness and accessibility are key tenets of the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Plan, compiled – again, sensibly – via joined-up work and talks between those at the sharp-end of delivery, including Health & Social Care, Guernsey Mind and other third-sector groups.

Not only does it therefore already have positive collaborative buy-in but, most importantly, a real chance of success for islanders needing help.

Although four years on from the States agreeing that a new strategy was required, the need for a clearer direction around this increasingly significant health issue has been taken seriously and appears to have been well worth the wait.

As well as defined priorities – including greater protection for vulnerable people, service delivery through evidence-based practice, ensuring those with a mental health condition are aware of the help that is out there, and encouraging a greater understanding of the importance of mental wellbeing – it is putting the subject right at the heart of our community.

This is vital for what was has in the past felt like a ‘Cinderella service’, compared to physical illness, and a health area that has for decades been beset by taboo and misunderstanding.

The tide is turning – not least due to its higher profile now thanks to celebrities sharing their stories, including a member of our Royal Family.

It is not before time for those among us who may have once – either through their own concerns or the attitudes others – felt weak or ashamed at sharing their feelings, such as those of desperate anxiety, depression, self-loathing or even worse.

Local findings in the 2010 Emotional Wellbeing Survey showed that 21% of islanders had poor mental wellbeing, with the costs adding up £105.8m.

More and more people already now feel able to open up and, most importantly, seek help.

This flexible plan – giving as it does support at key stages and backed up by real funding so investment reaches the right areas – hopefully offers a life-changing service that thousands of islanders will benefit from.