Praxis Care marks world mental health day

Ken Brundle, Chair of Praxis Care is urging local politicians and community leaders to take positive steps to promote good mental health and ensure mental ill-health is treated on a par with physical illness.

He said: “Mental ill health affects individuals across social, economic, religious and political divides.

Famous people such as Darren Edie, a former Norwich City footballer has battled with depression and plans to set up clinics in Norfolk to help players to cope with mental ill health. Ruby Wax recently highlighted in her new documentary ‘Mad Confessions’ how she had suffered issues of secrecy and feelings of shame when she battled with her own mental illness.

“World Mental Health Day promotes more open discussion on mental illness and the need for investment in prevention and treatment services.

Praxis Care now offers a dedicated counselling service which uses cognitive behaviour therapy for the treatment of depression”

Edwin Poots, Minister for Health, Social Services and Public Safety: “Mental health can be defined as a state of well-being enabling individuals to realise their abilities, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and effectively, and make a contribution to their communities.

For too long mental health has been hidden behind a wall of stigma and even discrimination. In the past many people would not talk about it or share their feelings. In many respects it was and still is a hidden disease.

“I welcome the initiative taken by Praxis Care to highlight the issue of mental health today and launching their new counselling service. I would call upon you to support Praxis Care in any way you can.”

If you want to know more about the work of Praxis Care and the new counselling service visit www.praxiscare.org.uk or call 028 90 234 555