Mental health affects people throughout the year and there is no particular month or day where people are more likely to feel unwell.

Clinical lead at TalkingSpace Plus in Oxfordshire Jo Ryder said: “At this time of year there is often focus upon mental health, around mid-January when people remember a marketing campaign which suggested people may like to book a trip away now that the holiday period had passed and its still dark outside.

“It’s important that we remember to look out for one another and support one another year round. People can experience feelings of low mood, anxiety, stress and depression at any time of the year.

“Mental health support is available year round.”

If you are concerned about your mood, or that of anyone close to you, you can call NHS 111 to access the Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Mental Health Helpline. The 24/7 NHS helpline supports children, young people, adults and older adults with their mental health at any time day or night.

You can also get in touch with your GP or directly contact TalkingSpace Plus in Oxfordshire or Healthy Minds in Buckinghamshire – NHS talking therapy services which support adults.

Oxfordshire’s TalkingSpace and Buckinghamshire’s Healthy Minds, both free psychological therapy services available through the NHS, are preparing themselves to help people cope at this difficult time.

Xxx said: “We know that this can be a challenging time of year but free and easy-to-access therapy is available through the NHS. We are on hand to help. I would encourage anyone who is at all concerned about their mental health to get in touch with our talking therapy services or the NHS mental health helpline.

“There are some simple steps you can take to support your mental health as we head into the later part of the winter period. Use this opportunity to seep well, eat a warming balanced diet, take regular exercise and connect with friends and loved ones. Remember to take time to ask after one another and support people close to you if you are at all worried about their mental health”

TalkingSpace Plus 01865 901 222

HealthyMinds 01865 901 600