NHS pledges to help 1 million more people with mental health problems

Within the next five years, the NHS hopes to help a further one million patients suffering from mental health issues across England.

nhs mentla health doctors hospitals

by Hayley Kadrou |
Published on

This pledge comes as a new report show as little as 15 per cent of people with psychological problems have access to the care they need.

More than ever, the need for accessible mental health care is crucial. After previous steady decline, last year saw an increase in suicide rates, and mental health issues is now the largest single cause of disability within the UK.

The report conducted by an NHS taskforce showed that 1 in 4 people experience mental health problems each year, and as many as three-quarters of those receive no help.

In response, health bosses and ministers have added an extra £1bn to tackle problems of the lack of local or accessible help and care. For those who do receive the medical help they need, many have to travel across the country, proving difficult and costly for both individuals and families.

nhs need more funding for children with mental health issues
mental health issues among children ©alamy

Research shows that there is also an increasing issues of mental health problems within primary school children, and those affected have very limited access to care. Last week, The National Association of Head Teachers warned that to prevent serious psychiatric problems within adulthood, it’s crucial we give vulnerable children the help they need within schools from a young age.

This most recent repost showed that one in ten children have a diagnosable mental health condition.

As well as focusing in on health care support for children, new mums are also be targeted, as the NHS aim to see at least 300,000 more women a year in need of perinatal mental health services. Currently, such specific services are only available in 15 per cent of areas across England.

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