DORSET residents are being urged not to suffer in silence if they feel down or depressed.

Dorset HealthCare receives more than 12,000 referrals a year for psychological therapies to help people suffering with anxiety or depression.

And with January known to be the toughest time of the year for mental health issues, the trust is urging people to focus on keeping busy and doing things to improve their mood.

Professional lead for psychology and psychological therapies Meherzin Das said: “Many people struggle with depression all year round, but for some it can intensify at this time of year. January can be a time of stress and worry which can trigger symptoms.

"Christmas debt, returning to work and dealing with the aftermath of family arguments can all be contributing factors, causing negative thoughts and feelings.

"Add to this the typical decrease in leisure activities and spending less time with friends and it isn’t surprising that people can find themselves in a position of having more time to think about their worries, and not being able to do the things that would normally improve their mood."

Dorset HealthCare said people can be supported either through its confidential Steps2Wellbeing service or through Community Mental Health Teams.

Dr Rachael Tanner, clinical psychology lead for Dorset HealthCare in North Dorset, said: "Reducing our activity levels is a big contributing factor in depression. When we stop doing things we enjoy, we miss out on positive experiences and pleasant feelings.

"By setting small, manageable tasks such as going for a five-minute walk, reading, or simply carrying out a hobby for a short period of time means we are less likely to feel overwhelmed.

"This leaves us feeling more hopeful and motivated, reducing the symptoms of depression."

Anyone struggling with the effects of depression can go to the NHS Choices website, Depression UK at depressionuk.org or Blurt at blurtitout.org

For details of courses run by NHS professionals with lived experience of mental health problems visit dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/services/recovery

You can also call the Samaritans on 116 123, or use their text service via 07725 909090.