A Rotherham based health trust which provides a range of services across the borough to people experiencing difficulties with their mental health has issued the following advice for residents who may be experiencing more than just the winter blues over the Christmas period.

Dianne Graham, Director of services in Rotherham for Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH), said: “For some people the festive season brings increased levels of anxiety and stress, and for others it may intensify feelings of loneliness, sadness and isolation.

“It’s important for people to know there is always someone to talk to and to seek help when it’s needed.  In the first instance Rotherham residents should try and speak to their GP or out of hours ring the out of hours on call GP.

“In an emergency situation, where you, or someone you know has concerns about their immediate mental health,you should ring our Crisis Team on Rotherham (01709) 302670.

“We also have specialist mental health staff working in the Accident and Emergency department at Rotherham Hospital who support the hospital staff and offer advice and support when people, both adults and children are admitted.

“We assess these patients and offer a range of different support, depending  upon the needs of the patient. This can include one-to-one support and counselling, group support and access to our Talking Therapies service via the website - http://www.talkingsense.org/   

“Another alternative is calling The Samaritans. However, if anyone has actually harmed themselves they should attend Accident and Emergency immediately.

“There are also a number of national helplines that offer support, a list of useful links can be found in the ‘Support and advice’ section of our website at the following link: http://www.rdash.nhs.uk”