A CHARITY that supports people in Dumfries and Galloway with challenges relating to drugs, alcohol and mental health is encouraging residents to look after themselves this new year.
WithYou, which delivers services in Dumfries and Stranraer, says that many people put themselves under too much pressure at this time of year – and it can be dangerous.
Service manager Chris Walker said: “Whether it’s worrying about money, being tempted to use substances at a party, or turning to alcohol to cope with everything that’s going on, we know that many people can find themselves in harmful situations over the festive season.
“The pressure to join in and have ‘the perfect Christmas’ can create new challenges, or exacerbate existing challenges, around drugs, alcohol and mental health.” As well as supporting people through local services across Scotland, WithYou runs a Webchat service which offers free, confidential advice on issues relating to drugs, alcohol and mental health. The team can also help individuals to develop specific plans for how they will cope at parties and other social events, where temptation might be an issue.
The Webchat, which is funded by the Scottish Government, is available every day. It is open on weekends and until 9 pm during the week.
Visit wearewithyou.org.uk to access the Webchat, or find out more about the support offered by WithYou in Dumfries and Galloway. Support is also available on free helpline, 0800 587 5879.
