Well Minds is a newly developed mental health and wellbeing booklet designed to support and empower Suffolk residents of all ages to take control of their mental health. It does this through providing details of services, helplines and advice for children, young people, adults, and carers, as well as signposting to specialist services for those facing complex challenges such as bereavement, trauma, or financial stress.
The booklet, which was based on a version previously created specifically for residents in East Suffolk, has been developed by the Public Health Team at Suffolk County Council in partnership with local partners, and residents with lived experience.
The booklet is available in both digital and physical format and has launched today in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day. Copies were given out at an information event held at Kesgrave Community Centre on 10 September and will continue to be available from all libraries across the county. A digital version can be accessed at https://www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/mentalhealth.
Cllr Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection said:
“Our mental health is as important as our physical health, and it shapes how we live, connect, and cope with challenges.
“Supporting it is more important than ever, and we are proud to be able to help residents access the right support at the right time.
“We hope it will make emotional wellbeing and mental health support more visible, accessible, and inclusive for all residents.”
In addition to the release of the Well Minds booklet today, a short, but powerful film on suicide awareness created by members of Particip8! - a young people’s participation group run by Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) - is also to premiere.
Commissioned by Suffolk Safeguarding Partnership, the film encourages open conversations about suicidal thoughts. It sees young people read quotes from individuals with lived experience of mental ill health before sharing their own reflections on coping and supporting others.
The video will be used as an official resource by Suffolk County Council and NSFT, and it will also be made available to organisations in Norfolk, Suffolk and beyond.
Kyra, 23, from Ipswich, was motivated to take part in the video because of her past experiences. She will speak at the event about the importance of safety planning. She said:
“For many years I have struggled with my mental health. In 2020, I made an attempt on my life and I truly believed I had no future.
“Today, I am 14 months clean, back in counselling, and living life one day at a time. It’s not always easy, but I finally feel at peace, and I am creating memories instead of running from my pain.”
Nick, 19, is a former NSFT service user and member of the participation group, who also shared his story as part of the emotive film. He has contributed to interview panels and believes lived experience is vital in shaping services. He said:
“Throughout my teenage years, I’ve spent a lot of years with NSFT. I was sectioned in 2022 – I’ve had some pretty dark times.
“I do think it’s important for service users to be involved in events like this because they’ve been on the other side of it. I’ve had these experiences but now I can use them to share my story with others.”
Dr Faisil Sethi, Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Chief Executive at NSFT, said:
“These young people have been courageous in sharing their lived experience to contribute to a better understanding in society of suicidal thoughts and mental ill health, and to improve our services.
“We’re thrilled to support the Suffolk Safeguarding Partnership with this resource that will be a benefit to so many.”
To watch the film and to learn more about the work being done by the Public Health Team at Suffolk County Council on the topic of Suicide Prevention, visit www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/healthy-you/suicide-prevention
