Hitchin MP Bim Afolami MP has joined many organisations and individuals to celebrate World Mental Health Day 2020.

Read what our town's parliamentarian said:

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We know that one in four people will experience a mental health issue of some kind each year in

the UK.

Yet, many people still feel uncomfortable talking about this or seeking help.

We must challenge the stigma and ensure that psychological wellbeing is seen as being equally important as good physical health.

This year the focus is on mental health for all.

This is more important than it has ever been as we recover from the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of millions.

A recent survey by the Office for National Statistics shows that the number of adults in Britain with depression has doubled during the pandemic.

As the local MP, I have been struck by the number of local people who have struggled after the announcement of the national lockdown in March.

Each day my office received correspondence from those who were worried about their jobs or businesses, those who grew lonely in isolation or those who were apprehensive about what was to come next and what this pandemic meant for their future.

As we adapt to our new normal over the next few months, it will be crucial that we continue to support our friends, family members, and neighbours who may be facing hardship or distress.

My focus over the next few months is to ensure that local people, businesses and our community have all the support they need.