Parity between Mental and Physical Healthcare

In Cumbria, mental health is an issue for every day of the year. The current figures for suicide rates are simply shocking. Cumbria has a suicide rate that is 55% higher than the average in England and Wales.

There were 16.3 deaths per 100,000 of the population compared to the average in England of 10.5 during 2020-2022, according to the Office for National Statistics. We also had double the average of suicides by those who were in contact with the mental health services in the year leading up to their death. This figure was 52% in North Cumbria when compared to the average of 27% in the rest of England, according to a Freedom of Information request to North East and North Cumbria ICS.

 In 2022 alone, twenty people took their lives in Carlisle, eighteen in Allerdale and nine in Eden.

Mental health and suicide are about more than Blue Monday.  This year Blue Monday falls on 15 January but, as the Mental Health Foundation points out, it’s a PR stunt that was originally dreamed up to sell holidays.

Unfortunately for many, the festive season can be an awful period for those who are struggling with their mental health. .If you are struggling, please don't hesitate to talk to someone. Every Life Matters is a Cumbrian based charity that offers vital health for those who are feeling overwhelmed. Anyone is welcome to get in touch to get the vital support they need. (https://www.every-life-matters.org.uk)

Mental health is something that I care very deeply about and unfortunately our mental health services have been left to crumble. However, change is possible! If elected, the Liberal Democrats promise to reform our mental health services for a better and brighter future.

Our plan for Mental Health includes:

1.     A trained Mental Health practitioner in every school

2. Parity between mental and physical health care

3. A focus on early intervention and preventative measures

4. Triple taxes on social media giants to fund services

No one should be stuck in the awful position of waiting months on end for mental health services.