Mental health. Let’s talk about it.

This week, I have taken time to reflect on things following a meeting I had this week with a group in Murton. The group approached DCA through the AAP, who asked DCA to go along to talk with the group about setting up as an incorporated organisation. After going along and speaking with the group, it got me thinking about the large number of peer support groups that I have recently been in contact with who are all starting up these groups after a recent bereavement.

The landscape of mental health support is witnessing a transformative shift in County Durham, marked by a growing number of peer support groups. These groups are emerging in response to a need for community-based mental health care, particularly in the wake of family or friend bereavements due to suicide. The commonality across these groups underpins a collective yearning for connection and healing in the aftermath of loss.

What role do the voluntary and community sectors play?

The voluntary and community sectors are increasingly playing a vital role, filling gaps left by health services. After speaking with the groups, there was a consensus that there is a growing reluctance to seek help from formal national services. These peer support groups offer an alternative avenue for individuals grappling with mental health challenges. There is a sense of community resilience and comfort that they find in talking to peers rather than professionals. How can this be utilised more on a local and national level? Is this recognised for the impact it could have on mental health services?

How could these support groups influence change?

Peer support groups hold the potential to influence local and national policies through consultation with these groups. By providing evidence of their impact and advocating for their needs, these groups can shape mental health services and contribute to policy guidance that recognises the value of lived experience. Their collective voice can direct attention to the importance of community engagement in health initiatives, informing, influencing, and improving local and national services as a whole.

Mental health. It’s time we talked about it!