Mental health responders presentation

Our mental health first responders, Cheryl Tang and Christianna Chatzichristou, gave a presentation to the team at lunchtime on 12 May.

They described some of the elements involved in good mental health, and explained what they were trained to do by St John Ambulance, as mental health first responders.

They also showed us a YouTube video by the World Health Organisation about depression, ‘I Had a Black Dog, His Name was Depression‘. The video was very well-received. We can all look out for friends and colleagues, and be supportive if we feel they are showing signs of mental ill-health.

As first responders, Cheryl and Christianna will listen in confidence and point people towards sources of help. These include:

• Mind –  https://www.mind.org.uk/ which runs an information line 9am to 6pm on weekdays
• Mental Health UK
• Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org/ which runs a 24-hour free phone helpline on 116 123

The event was one of our series of ‘Eat and Learn’ CPD (continual professional development) presentations, with lunch provided by Plan A.