O’Dowd welcomes mental health funding

Cllr O’Dowd said the funding has been made available for the continued implementation of the Bamford Action Plan.’

She said the extra funding will be used to assist the resettlement of mental health patients, currently resident in hospital, the development of early-intervention within the community and the increased use of psychological therapies.

“At some point in their lives one out of every four people will suffer from mental health problems. Between 2012 and 2015 this investment will be used to fund a broad range of adult mental health services which will serve to promote better outcomes for individuals,” said Cllr O’Dowd.

She said no matter how good any treatment is it can only work if those with a problem come forward to receive the treatment.

“There is a stigma associated with mental ill health problems and that stigma prevents many people seeking the help they need. It also produces negative reactions amongst family and friends and this in turn leads to people being isolated and discriminated against and makes recovery more difficult. It is essential that we all work to breaking down these negative views and stereotyping.”