This week is Mental Health Awareness Week. Whilst it’s estimated that 2 million Londoners suffer from mental ill health, previous studies show that many do not access any form of treatment.
Poor mental health affects people from all backgrounds, but sadly, too many across our city’s diverse communities suffer in silence. Many are still too afraid to speak openly about the issues they face, such as stress, depression and anxiety.
Last Summer, the Mayor launched the Thrive LDN movement to improve mental health and well-being across the capital and drive out stigma and discrimination.
Thrive LDN also plays the important role of promoting a more joined-up approach between boroughs, health services, police, transport and voluntary organisations when offering support services to people with mental health issues.
We want all Londoners to feel confident that they can have an open conversation about their mental health. Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that it’s important to reach out to family, friends and our work colleagues and ensure those vital support networks are in place.
Jennette Arnold,
OBE London Assembly Member for the North East
