THURSDAY, 9 OCTOBER, 2025

Photograph attached:

Dr Jane Bray, consultant in public health medicine and public mental health lead

World Mental Health Day: NHS Tayside events highlight access to vital services

NHS Tayside is holding a series of events to commemorate World Mental Health Day – highlighting access to vital support in the region.

The theme for the Mental Health Foundation awareness day on 10 October relates to looking after mental health in times of crisis, emergencies and to avoid overwhelm when global events and relentless bad news become too much.

Events being held by NHS Tayside – for the public and staff - will highlight how to support wellbeing and improve understanding of mental health.

These will include:

• Virtual online sessions and conversations on mental health and wellbeing awareness and how to access services

• Awareness-raising and mental health promotion stands at Ninewells Hospital by the main reception on 10 October, between 11am and 3pm

These events provide an opportunity to engage in important conversations about mental health, learn about available resources, and connect with dedicated wellbeing professionals.

The event will be open to the wider workforce, including public, private and third sector employees and volunteers in Tayside.

Mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall wellbeing, and its importance is magnified during any situations that cause stress. Ensuring people have access to mental health services at times of need is critical.

Dr Jane Bray, consultant in public health medicine and public mental health lead, said, “We need good mental health to be able to work, have good relationships and to help us look after our wellbeing. It is important that we are all able to look after our wellbeing and mental health as this helps us cope at difficult times.”

Dr Imran Arain, senior health promotion officer for mental health and wellbeing and substance use, said, “World Mental Health Day serves as a vital reminder that our mental health is just as important as our physical health, especially at times of stress.”

For further details on the events, contact tay.publicmentalhealthtraining@nhs.scot and for general information about this year’s World Mental Health Day, visit World Mental Health Day 2025 | Mental Health Foundation

People can also access NHS Tayside’s online self-help mental health directory, which includes a list of mental health support and advice organisations and resources in Tayside and nationally. This is available at www.livinglifewelltayside.scot.nhs.uk

If you need to speak to someone, you can contact:

• Samaritans: 116 123

• Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87

• NHS 24: 111

Contact:

Lee Harrow

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740719