It’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Because of the current economic climate, high levels of deprivation and many more factors, there’s been an increase in mental health issues around the country and especially in Islington.
According to Islington Council & Clinical Commissioning Group, “Islington has a significantly higher level of mental health need than both London and England as a whole,” with approximately 31,000 adults experiencing depression or anxiety disorders every week.
Even though the rate of suicide looks like it’s dropping nationally, Islington has higher rates compared to the rest of London and England – with ten deaths per 100,000 people, compared to 7-8 back in 2007-2009.
Most suicides are by people not known to secondary mental health services and occur at home, or close to home, according to Islington Council & Clinical Commissioning Group.
With the current financial hardship and unemployment surrounding the borough, the NHS is facing a financial challenge while trying to provide high-quality services without additional funding.
Islington council estimates that the incidence of depression and anxiety in the borough will rise by almost 1,000 in 2020. Psychotic disorders have also been increasing up to 10.2%, rising from 3,032 in 2010 to 3,241 in 2020.
Islington’s Mental Health Promotion Strategy focuses on raising awareness and getting out information, while encouraging people to use primary care services around the borough.
Talking about your problems really can help. The council is trying to reduce the stigma while providing a wide range of local community based voluntary sector services, including supported housing, advice and information services, support for carers and employment support.
Islington’s service, iCope, is highly valued by GPs. It offers free confidential help for problems such as stress, worry, depression and insomnia for adults of all ages. With free apps and Skype video treatment sessions online, iCope is trying to reach out to everyone.
This Wednesday, May 10th, join the staff from Islington Council and Manor Gardens for a Wellbeing Event at Finsbury Park Community Hub, in order to find out more about how you can keep healthy. Read more here.
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