Live It Well hope you have a safe and happy Christmas but just in case you’re finding it difficult to cope with the festive season we are reminding you that Mental Health Matters is a free helpline offering confidential emotional support and guidance for people in Kent and Medway. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, on 0800 107 0160 and staff are trained in counselling skills, so can offer support over the phone. They also have details of local and national services if people want more support.

The Samaritans are also there providing confidential emotional support, for anyone feeling down, depressed or anxious. Volunteers can be contacted 24 hours a day by phone on 08457 90 90 90, or you can email [email protected] or you can arrange for a face to face visit through their website, click here to find out about the details of your local branch.

Another great way of keeping well is the Six Ways to Wellbeing, little things that everyone can do to help them cope with difficult times and get more out of life at Christmas and all year round, click here to see more about the Six Ways to Wellbeing.

If you want some free therapy you can refer yourself into the free NHS Talking Therapy services in Kent and Medway. You can find information about the Free Counselling and Therapy Services here.