Government pledge more counselling services
The recession has triggered symptoms of depression in those facing unemployment or money worries, so the government is to announce new plans for more counselling and ‘talking-therapy services’ reports the Guardian.
The plans include a new NHS Direct hotline where people can talk to trained therapists as well as more advice available in job centres and doctors surgeries.
There is a fear that those suffering from the credit crunch may suffer from long-term mental illness such as depression and anxiety and therefore struggle to find employment, causing more worry and stress.
Health secretary Alan Johnson said: “In the current economic downturn, the potential exists for more people to become anxious or depressed. If someone is feeling down after losing their job, the best solution is a new job and we are helping people find them wherever possible. But, in some cases, depression and anxiety can be a barrier to getting another job.”
