Call to ringfence mental health funds

THE Mental Health Commission has urged people feeling the strain from debt and unemployment to take four practical steps to help them cope with daily life.

According to the World Health Organisation, one in four people will experience a mental health problem in their lives.

The commission has also urged the Government to ringfence funding for community facilities so the number of mental health admissions in hospitals can be reduced. It also warned that mental health policy must be aimed at “recovery” and not just keeping patients stable.