Services to support people who have been struggling with their mental health as a result of the coronavirus crisis are still available.

Gloucestershire County Council launched a number of new services in April in response to the Covid-19 outbreak to supplement existing services for anyone struggling with anxiety, health, finances, job security or any other issues that may have been contributing to mental health difficulties.

The council would like to remind everyone of the services available, which are easy to access and do not necessarily need a referral from a health professional.

Services available for adults include:

• Qwell - includes self-care resources and access to trained online counsellors, and is open to anyone experiencing issues with their emotional wellbeing, such as stress or anxiety. Visit: www.qwell.io 
• Let's Talk - an NHS service for people experiencing issues like stress, anxiety and depression. You can access the service via 0800 073 2200 or www.letstalkglos.nhs.uk 

Services available for young people include:

• Kooth - an anonymous online support platform which includes self-care resources and access to trained online counsellors, as well as an online support network, and is open to anyone aged 11-18 experiencing issues with their emotional wellbeing, such as stress, low mood or anxiety. Visit: www.kooth.com 
• TIC+ Chat - an anonymous phone or online counselling service for young people aged nine to 21. Call 0300 303 8080 or visit www.ticplus.org.uk  A parent support and advice line is also available online or by calling 0800 6525675.
• CAMHS (Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services) - provides specialist NHS mental health services for children and young people (and their families/carers) who are experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties, from birth to their 18th birthday. See https://cayp.ghc.nhs.uk  or speak to your GP or another professional about getting a referral.
• Chat Health - a confidential text messaging service for young people to get in touch with a healthcare professional for advice and support. Text 07507 333351.

If you're feeling very distressed, you can get help 24 hours a day by calling the Samaritans  on 116 123 or texting Shout  (for adults) or The Mix (for under 25s) on 85258.

The Gloucestershire Self Harm Helpline is available for young people and adults who self harm, and their friends, families and carers. It is a safe, non-judgmental helpline and can be used via webchat at www.gloucestershireselfharm.org , by calling 0808 816 0606 or texting 07537 410 022.

Free online training is also available for people so they can spot the signs when people are struggling and potentially having suicidal thoughts, and help them access support. See www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/public-health/gloucestershire-suicide-prevention-partnership/suicide-prevention-training/  for details.

Cllr Tim Harman, cabinet member for public health and communities, said: "We know this is still a challenging time for everyone, so we thought it's important to remind people of the support that's available. It's normal to feel stressed or worried, so if anything is having an impact on your mental wellbeing, please reach out for support.

"Whether you want to chat with someone online, call or text, a range of services can be accessed and they are safe and free."

For a list of mental health services available in the county, visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/mental-health-services