Key aims

The National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Wellbeing has four key aims. As well as providing funding for specific campaigns and projects that relate to them, they guide all of our work:

Raising awareness and promoting mental health and wellbeing

Everyone needs to know what mental health is, what mental illnesses are, and where to go for assistance. Otherwise, we're unlikely to get the help and advice we need when we need it. This is just as true for those around us (i.e. we can't help our friends if we don't realise they need help). There are lots of ways we can avoid mental health problems and maintain positive mental health.

We encourage activities that promote positive mental health and wellbeing and raise awareness. In particular, we work in partnership with NHS Health Scotland to do the same.

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Eliminating stigma and discrimination around mental ill health

Stigma and discrimination around mental illness make life even more difficult for those experiencing problems. The fear stigma causes stops people from seeking the help they need, whether from services or from friends and family. It can even stop us thinking about mental health issues altogether – at least, until a problem has become so serious it can't be ignored.

To try and help change public attitudes, the National Programme supports the national campaign to eliminate stigma – 'see me'

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Preventing suicide and supporting people bereaved by suicide

Preventing suicide is a high priority. Scotland has one of the highest suicide rates in Europe. More than two people per day die from suicide in Scotland. Suicide affects all ages, genders and cultures and suicide prevention is everybody's business.

'Choose Life' is Scotland's national strategy and action plan to prevent suicide.

We also support 'Breathing Space'– the free and confidential telephone advice information line for people experiencing low mood and depression.

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Promoting and supporting recovery from mental health problems

The majority of people can and do recover from periods of mental illness – even severe and enduring problems. Many others learn to live with their symptoms and lead full lives. This is what is meant by 'recovery' in the context of mental health and wellbeing.

We support the work of the Scottish Recovery Network (SRN)

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