PEOPLE in Worcestershire struggling with mental health problems now have access to a free online library offering advice on coping with their issues.

The series of guides published by Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust – which provides mental health and other non-emergency services in the county – feature advice on issues including depression, bereavement, and anxiety as well as alcohol or drug dependency.

The guides, each of which includes a video introduction and audio sections, also cover topics such as domestic violence, self-harm, eating disorders and post-traumatic stress.

The trust’s lead for adult mental health Mark Dickens said the guides – which are available at www.hacw.nhs.uk – can be used alongside people already receiving support or anyone looking for a little extra information on how better to deal with the challenges they face in their everyday lives.

“As well as providing direct interventions and services to people experiencing more serious mental health difficulties, we also want to support people at the other end of the scale who perhaps just need more support and advice to better manage their own feelings and issues,” he said.

“These guides may help prevent those issues escalating into something more serious, or can provide people with some reassurance that there is help and support whenever they need it at the click of a button.

They are also a really effective support which can be used alongside more intensive care or treatment.”