RESIDENTS who are feeling low, worried or stressed can now get quick and easy access to NHS support and advice thanks to the launch of a new website.
The site enables people to get in touch with their local Healthy Minds service by filling in a simple form and leaving their contact details so a health professional can get in touch.
Healthy Minds, run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust and commissioned by 
Oldham Clinical Commissioning Group, offers support, advice and treatment options for anyone struggling to cope with common mental health problems including low mood, stress, anxiety, depression.
Trained health professionals will offer support to individuals and treatment options include a course of computerised therapy, group sessions, or one to one therapy.
Previously, the only way to access the service was to be referred by a GP or other health worker.
Sue Evans, Team Manager for Healthy Minds Oldham said: “People often try to deal with these kinds of problems themselves, either because they are unaware there is help available or because they think they can cope without additional support.
“Unfortunately, sometimes these problems can continue for a long time or get worse and it’s important that people realise that there is support available – even if it’s just having someone to talk through the problem with.
“Healthy Minds is easily accessed by anyone in need of some advice. You can just visit our website and fill in a few simple details.
“Our trained health professionals will work with an individual to find the most appropriate level of treatment, whether that’s referring them to some self-help options or arranging therapy sessions.”
Meanwhile, to mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the Healthy Minds team is offering emotional wellbeing checks, relaxation taster sessions, and giving free advice and information.
The team will have information stands on the day at Spindles Town Square shopping centre, the Integrated Care Centre (ICC) on New Radcliffe Street, Tommyfield Indoor Market and Sainsbury’s, Union Street.
Emotional wellbeing taster sessions, relaxation sessions and refreshments will be available at The Beeches centre on Waterloo Street and the ICC.
For more information or to contact the service, visit www.penninecare.nhs.uk/healthyminds
Healthy Minds was previously known as IAPT or Psychological Therapies and has recently been renamed in line with the launch of the new self-referral website. The service is open to anyone aged 16 or over and is available across Oldham, Bury, Stockport, Rochdale and Tameside and Glossop.
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