THE number of people in the South West with mental health problems who use Citizens Advice reached over 10,000 last year.

On average, people reporting mental health problems in the region needed advice with five issues.

A new survey from Citizens Advice has found mental health practitioners are spending more time on non-health related issues, such as debt or housing, during appointments compared to last year.

Eight out of 10 practitioners surveyed by the charity said they had less time to deliver clinical care after being asked to assist with tasks like writing up debt management plans and contacting public service bodies.

Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire runs an advice session at Kennedy Way GP Surgery in Yate on the first Tuesday of every month, from 1pm – 2pm.   

The service allows health professionals to focus on treatment, and help people tackle practical problems which can cause or contribute to their poor mental health.

In 2017, Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire helped 268 people with a mental health problem out of a total of 4,466.

Chantal Watts, General Manager of Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire said:

“Practical problems, like debt, can often be more difficult to manage if you also have  mental health problems.

“This new research shows it’s too often mental health professionals who are spending appointment time helping patients with wider problems. It is vital that people with mental health problems have access to appropriate practical support in their community.”