Derby North MP Amanda Solloway has asked well-known local figures and ordinary people to share advice about what actions they take when they are feeling down.
The film is being released to mark World Mental Health Day on October 10 which is designed to educate, raise awareness, and provide advocacy against social stigma.
Among the contributors to the ‘When I’m Feeling Down’ video is Mayor of Derby, Councillor Robin Wood who says he plays the piano when he feels down, while Robert Jenrick, Minister of State for Health says walking his dog helps him.
Peter Else, CEO of Cosy Direct says he goes outside when he is feeling low, as it reminds him that there is something larger than him in life. While Derby artist Sarah Graham says practising gratitude helps her because when you are feeling grateful for things you can’t feel anxious at the same time.
Derbyshire’s High Sheriff, Mike Copestake says reading a good book and getting an early night help him, while EMA Training apprentice Katie Cox enjoys cuddling up with her dog and watching Netflix.
Amanda is the founder of a mental health support organisation called HeadHigh which arranges community projects such as Shot in the Dark, a safe space at Derby’s Shot Tower offering mental health support every Friday evening between 10pm and midnight.
She said: “It has been well documented that my own family has had its share of mental health problems – my mother tried kill herself at the age of just 17 and devastatingly my cousin took his own life when he was 36.
“Mental health issues can affect anyone and the more we talk about it, the more we can help each other. This is why we have made this film, asking prominent people in the city to share what works for them when they are feeling low.
“For me, spending time with my granddaughter will always improve my outlook – her enthusiasm and love of life cannot fail to raise my spirits.
“If people can identify what works for them, then it may just help lift them when they find themselves struggling. I really hope this video provides some suggestions and also that people know they are not alone – everyone feels down some times.”
Other contributors include Mackworth Councillor Gaurav Pandey, Kerry Ganly from Penguin PR, and Paul Brookhouse from Community Action Derby.
- To find out more information about HeadHigh and its various projects visit www.headhigh.org.uk
