The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to take positive steps to look after their mental health through its latest pharmacy-based Living Well campaign, Managing Anxiety, which will run throughout August and September.

The Living Well service, which highlights the role of pharmacy teams in providing advice and support to people in their communities, is delivered in partnership with the Public Health Agency (PHA), Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI), and the Department of Health (DoH. This new campaign offers practical tips and skills to help people manage feelings of anxiety along with information on where to find support when it is needed. 

A series of short videos with top tips on breathing techniques has also been developed for www.MindingYourHead.info to guide people through some really useful ways to help with anxiety.

Alison McCusker, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: "Anxiety is a feeling of unease, fear or worry, and feeling anxious from time to time is something most of us experience. It can be related to a variety of things such as health, finances, work, or relationships. It is also possible to feel anxious without knowing what is causing you to feel that way. 

“Through our Living Well Managing Anxiety campaign, we want to help people understand that there are practical steps we can all take to support our mental wellbeing. Small actions, such as staying connected with others, being physically active, practising calming techniques and making time for activities we enjoy, can all help us feel better equipped to cope. 

“A certain level of anxiety can be helpful, motivating us to prepare for challenges or important events such as exams, interviews or work deadlines. However, when feelings of anxiety become overwhelming or start to affect our daily lives, it is important to recognise this and seek support.

"It is also important that people know they are not alone and that support is available through healthcare services and community and voluntary organisations with experienced professionals providing help across Northern Ireland when you need it. No one should feel that they have to manage anxiety on their own."

Anxiety can affect people in different ways. It can impact how we feel, think, behave and how our body works, leading to a range of emotional and physical symptoms.

While anxiety can feel overwhelming, recovery is possible and many people successfully overcome mental health difficulties, particularly when they access the right support.

As part of the Living Well service, more than 500 community pharmacies across Northern Ireland provide trusted advice and support to local communities. Pharmacists can offer a listening ear, signpost people to relevant services and provide information resources, including leaflets on managing anxiety.

Rebekah Rea, Community Pharmacist at Mathewson's Pharmacy, Ballymoney, said: "Community pharmacies are often one of the most accessible healthcare settings for people who may be struggling with their mental health. Many people speak to their pharmacist regularly and feel comfortable seeking advice in a familiar environment.

"Sometimes a conversation is all it takes to help someone realise they are not alone and that support is available. Community pharmacists can provide information on managing anxiety, direct people to appropriate services and help them take positive steps towards improving their wellbeing."

For more information on managing anxiety and the support available, visit www.pha.site/livingwell or speak to your local community pharmacist.