Everyone experiences difficult times. Feelings such as stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, or grief can affect anyone at any stage of life.
Cardinham Parish Council wants residents to know that support is available and you are not alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, talking to someone can make a real difference.
When Things Feel Overwhelming
Sometimes people experience:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Anxiety or constant worry
- Feeling isolated or alone
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Thoughts of harming themselves
These feelings can be frightening, but help and support are available.
Speaking with a trusted person, a professional, or a helpline can be an important first step.
If You Need to Talk to Someone Now
Support for Anyone in Emotional Distress
? Samaritans
Telephone: 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day)
Website: samaritans.org
The Samaritans provide a safe place to talk about anything that is troubling you.
Support for Children and Young People
? Childline
Telephone: 0800 1111
Website: childline.org.uk
Childline offers confidential advice and support for anyone under 19.
Mental Health Support and Advice
? Mind
Telephone: 0300 123 3393
Mind provides information and support for people experiencing mental health difficulties.
NHS Mental Health Support
You can also contact your GP or access advice through the National Health Service website or by ringing 111
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Understanding Positive Reinforcement
Small positive steps can help support mental wellbeing.
Positive reinforcement means recognising and encouraging helpful behaviours, progress, and small achievements.
Examples include:
- Taking time to acknowledge small successes
- Offering encouragement and kindness to yourself and others
- Building routines that include rest, exercise, and social contact
- Staying connected with family, friends, or community groups
Positive reinforcement does not solve every problem, but it can help build resilience and support recovery over time.
Looking Out for Each Other
Communities can play an important role in supporting wellbeing.
Simple actions can make a difference:
- Check in on neighbours, especially those who may be isolated
- Encourage open conversations about mental health
- Offer support without judgement
- Share information about where help can be found
You Are Not Alone
If you are struggling, please remember that many people experience similar feelings at times in their lives.
Talking to someone can help lighten the burden.
Support is available through organisations such as Samaritans, Childline, and Mind, as well as through local health services and trusted members of the community.
Local Support in Cornwall
In addition to national organisations, there are services available locally that can help residents experiencing mental health difficulties.
You can contact your GP or seek advice through the National Health Service for local mental health support services in Cornwall.
Local wellbeing hubs, community organisations, and charities can also provide:
- Advice and guidance
- Counselling or emotional support
- Community groups and social activities
- Help for people experiencing loneliness or isolation
If you are unsure where to start, organisations such as Mind or Samaritans can help guide you towards appropriate local services.
Support for Farmers and Rural Communities
Living and working in rural areas can bring particular challenges. Farmers and agricultural workers may face pressures such as financial uncertainty, isolation, long working hours, and the emotional strain of managing livestock and land.
Specialist charities exist to support people in the farming community.
Farming Community Support
? Farming Community Network
Telephone: 03000 111 999
The Farming Community Network provides confidential support for farmers, farm workers, and their families. Volunteers understand the pressures of farming life and offer practical and emotional support.
Additional Farming Support
? Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI)
Telephone: 0808 281 9490
RABI provides financial, practical, and mental health support for farming people across the UK.