Inveraray takes some Breathing Space
Breathing Space – the free, confidential phoneline for people across Scotland who are feeling low or depressed – will be hosting an information session in Inverary on Wednesday 29th June in the Argyll Hotel, Inveraray at 1pm – 2.30pm.
The event will include a presentation from Breathing Space's Service Coordinator for Argyll & Bute, Tony McLaren and endorsement from Charlotte Lee, Choose Life Co-ordinator for Argyll & Bute.
Tony McLaren, Breathing Space Service Co-ordinator said "I am delighted to have the opportunity to meet with local agencies and individuals in Inveraray and formally introduce the Breathing Space phoneline to this part of Argyll.
"Breathing Space can offer people a convenient and confidential space to talk about how they are feeling and helps ensure early detection of depression in order to prevent the incidence of more serious mental health problems. We have specialist call advisors available every day of the year from 6pm – 2am on 0800 83 85 87 (Minicom: 0800 31 71 60). Call advisors can listen and offer advice, or suggest people who can help with more specific problems in the caller's local area."
Charlotte Lee, Choose Life Co-ordinator for Argyll & Bute commented "This unique service will be of great benefit to people in Argyll & Bute. We find that wherever people live in Argyll & Bute there is a reluctance to seek help for mental health problems because of fears about stigma.
"The availability of a freephone service such as Breathing Space will allow people to take immediate, constructive action towards reducing the impact that their low mood, depression or anxiety is having on their everyday lives. It will complement NHS service provision and provide an additional, less formal option for people experiencing distress."
Editor's Notes
Breathing Space is a free, confidential phoneline that anyone in Scotland can call when they are feeling low or depressed.
The phoneline is free, confidential and available to the public every day from 6pm – 2am on 0800 83 85 87 or Minicom: 0800 31 71 60.
Breathing Space service is confidential and the free phone number won't show up in telephone bills (however mobile phone users should check with their network as they may be charged for the call).
Breathing Space currently receives around 2,000 calls per month.
In recent years there have been up to around 900 suicides and undetermined deaths per annum in Scotland and nearly 80% of these involve men. In the last 30 years alone the suicide rate in men has increased by 250%, making suicide one of the most common causes of death amongst this group in Scotland.
Further Information:
Geraldine Scott
Breathing Space
Communications & Marketing Assistant
Tel: 0141 435 3901
info@breathingspacescotland.co.uk
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