The pandemic has highlighted the worsening mental health of the nation – and, thankfully, raised awareness of this issue.
Under depleting living conditions, a global health crisis, redundancies, and now the scare of a possible global conflict, cases of ill mental health have been on the rise.
Boots have now launched an on-demand health service to enable people to access help quickly.
From talking therapy to prescription medicines, there are different options for people to start their journey towards better mental health.
It’s now estimated that 1.6million people are waiting for help on the NHS and the number of adults experiencing depression and anxiety is up on pre-pandemic levels.
One of the new services is the Boots Online Doctor Depression & Anxiety Treatment, which is a GP consultation followed by a tailored treatment and support plan.
On the website, there is also a Support Room, which matches a patient with a therapist who will talk via text and offer video check-ins. The therapist will also teach self-help tools.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, the main mode of therapy offered on the NHS, will be available via video calls so anyone in the country can access the support no matter their location.
Less hands-on approaches include a new Mood & Symptom Checker, which can be filled out then reviewed by a mental health professional.
Lastly, an information hub has launched with free advice and articles.
Marc Donovan, Chief Pharmacist at Boots, said: ‘Mental health is an important part of our wellbeing, and our pharmacists are always on hand to provide advice and support as a first port of call for people – whatever their healthcare issue.
‘Since the start of the pandemic, our pharmacists noticed an increase in requests from patients for mental health services.
‘In response, we’re making dedicated online mental health services available to our patients, providing accessible support and helping relieve pressure on the mental health services already available through the NHS.
‘When it comes to mental health, it’s important that patients can access the treatments that suit them.
‘Mental health issues like depression and anxiety affect people differently and there is not a one-size-fits-all approach.’
Digital, on-demand healthcare services are growing in popularity too, according to Boots.
A recent study showed that 88% people who used digital healthcare services during the pandemic plan to continue them due to the convenience they offer.
The new services aren’t funded on the NHS, so will cost between £40-65 a month depending on the treatment that’s sought.
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