To mark World Mental Health Day (Saturday, October 10), residents have been reminded by Richmond Council's public health team of the free support services that can help.

Covid-19 has made this year a particularly difficult one - months of lockdown and personal loss have had a huge impact on many people's mental health.

If you have been affected, or you know someone who has been, try reaching out to one of the below free support services.

• Good Thinking is a free virtual resource provided by Thrive London, Public Health England and the NHS. It aims to provide digital mental wellbeing support for London through online quizzes, workshops, podcasts and activities. Visit the website here.

• Richmond Wellbeing Service offers a range of free and confidential talking therapies and specialist support for adults. You can visit the website here or give them a call on 020 8548 5550.

• RB Mind's Helpline offers a safe place where you can speak to someone who will listen, offer you support and guide you to further help if needed. The service is for anyone aged 18 and over living in the borough. The emotional support line is open Monday to Friday from 9am – 1pm, Saturday from 2pm – 10pm and Sunday 2pm – 8pm. Call 0203 137 9590.

• Kooth is a free, safe and anonymous place for young people to find online support and counselling. Visit www.kooth.com for more information.

• If you need mental health support in a crisis, you can call the South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust 24/7 Mental Health Support Line on 0800 028 8000. It is open to everyone and if required you can then visit the 24/7 Orchid Mental Health Emergency Service at Springfield Hospital in Tooting, London, to receive specialist care from expert mental health professionals.

Thrive London is hosting a virtual World Mental Health Day Festival from midday today.

The day features workshops, performances and panel discussions all with the aim of supporting you to build resilience and promote positive wellbeing.

Cllr Piers Allen is lead member for adult social services, health and housing and chari of the Richmond Health and Wellbeing Board.

He said: "It has been an extremely tough year for everyone and so this World Mental Health Day is the most important one yet.

"Making positive change can be difficult, especially during uncertain times. It can be overwhelming to know where to start.

"But if you are up to doing one thing today to help your mental health, why not try visiting the Good Thinking website or calling RB Mind's Helpline for a chat.

"Take those first steps this World Mental Health Day to support yourself or to reach out to someone else."

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