A FAMILIAR Beatles song is being used to encourage people to seek support when they need it with their mental health.
Help! was a number one hit for three weeks in July 1965. John Lennon later spoke about how he’d written the song as a literal cry for help as he dealt with the stress of The Beatles’ rapid rise to fame.
Now, some of the UK’s biggest artists are backing the campaign, which urges anyone experiencing anxiety, depression, or other common mental health concerns to reach out for help.
Dr Yonette Hassell, clinical service and strategy lead for Outlook South West IAPT, said: “We are aware that many in our community are experiencing worry, low mood and stress for the first time as their day-to-day lives have changed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The guided self-help and courses that we offer at the IAPT service provide strategies to help you get your life back on track. Our digital platforms give you the flexibility to talk at a time that suits you. Working with our therapists you can learn to manage your worry, low mood and stress.”
NHS mental health talking therapies are a confidential service run by fully trained experts and can be accessed by self-referral or through your GP.
The all-star campaign, featuring top names from the UK music industry including Craig David, Nicola Roberts, Tom Grennan, Laura Mvula, Ella Henderson and Max George, will run across radio, social media, and on demand thanks to Sony Music and Apple Corps, who have donated the lyrics and melody of the Beatles classic.
Anyone over 16 in Cornwall who is struggling with their mental health can call the 24/7 Connect phoneline on 0800 038 5300 for help and advice. They can signpost to Outlook South West IAPT therapies and other forms of support within the county. Or people can self-refer directly by visiting https://www.cornwallft.nhs.uk/outlook-south-west/