A CHARITY has called on the next Scottish government to take radical action in order to combat what it describes as a growing mental health crisis in Scotland.
The Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) has launched its manifesto for the Scottish Parliament election in May.
Informed by over 2500 people across Scotland, many of whom have lived experience of mental health problems, Standing Up for Scotland’s Mental Health sets out 38 actions to make mental health a national priority.
Among their recommendations for real change, the charity is calling for redoubled efforts on suicide prevention, action now to support children and young people and rapid access to psychological wellbeing support for adults.
The research and experiences which lie at the heart of the SAMH manifesto emphasise that it makes all the difference when people are given the support they need quickly.
In the last 12 months, Scotland has seen its population’s mental health and the mental health systems designed to support it challenged like never before:
- One in five children referred to specialist mental health services are still being turned away
- A quarter of those referred for psychological therapies wait at least four months to be seen
- Deaths by suicide have risen over the last two years
The manifesto reflects the real life experiences of people across Scotland.
Billy Watson, SAMH chief executive, said: “Scotland’s mental health deserves better. A growing number of people across the country are facing mental health problems and are struggling to access help. There have been too many promises on mental health and not enough action. With the added pressure brought about by the pandemic, we need a radical new plan. We must now, more than ever, see political and government commitment to make mental health a priority. That’s why today SAMH is launching our manifesto, urging the next Scottish Government to put the mental health of the nation first.
“It’s time to listen to the hopes, fears and needs of people with mental health problems.
“The next Scottish Parliament will see many new MSPs, as well as experienced members, returning for a further term. We hope we can rely on each and every one of them to stand up for Scotland’s mental health.”
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