Isle of Man Samaritans is proud to be supporting ‘World Mental Health Day’ which is held on October 10 every year.

The Douglas-based charity says the day provides a huge opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of our mental health and wellbeing, as well as looking out for others.

This year’s campaign theme is: ‘Real experiences heard: real voice, real change’.

It focuses on meaningfully engaging with people who have lived experience of mental health conditions and recognising their knowledge as a vital form of expertise.

The World Health Organisation states that someone with lived experience can be important to help make change and help influence decisions because of their own past struggles or daily experience.

This year’s campaign calls for their voices to shape the policies, services and decisions that affect their lives.

Branch director at Isle of Man Samaritans Deana Douglas said: ‘We are hopeful that this year’s theme provides a different outlook on mental health and will support people with lived experience to be heard where it matters.

‘There are far too many times when people with lived experiences are asked to share their experiences and stories but then they are excluded from any decision making, so we hope this campaign will help bring change.

‘Samaritans is the charity that prevents suicide through the power of human connection. Connecting people in crisis with trained volunteers who will always listen.

‘This World Mental Health Day, Isle of Man Samaritans would like to remind anyone out there who is struggling about any issues, that they can reach out to Samaritans, any time of the day on 116 123.’

For further information, please feel free to contact the Isle of Man Samaritans team by emailing [email protected]