A North East-based charity has reported the use of their crisis services across the region has doubled this year due to the cost of living crisis.

North East-based charity Mental Health Concern (MHC) has seen a large increase of people experiencing a mental health crisis access its Together in a Crisis (TIAC) service in 2022.

The charity has seen a 30 per cent increase in the use of its TIAC services in Sunderland, South Tyneside, Northumberland, North Tyneside, and Newcastle since January.

Worryingly, the organisation has also seen an increase of 121 per cent year-on-year for people with suicidal thoughts accessing the service.

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Speaking on the links between the cost of living crisis and its impact on mental health, Adam Crampsie, Chief Executive of Mental Health Concern, cited the charity's figures as proof of the trend.

He said: “The latest figures from our Together in a Crisis services confirm the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on the health and wellbeing of our communities.

“Bills are set to increase as we move into the colder months and, as inflation continues to rise, many people’s financial situations will only get more difficult.

"This is especially true for lower earners in our community. This isn’t about tightening belts or ‘feeling the pinch’ – it is about people being forced into making impossible decisions daily.”

Meanwhile, the charity said many of these TIAC cases had resulted from difficult financial situations, as more struggle to pay their living costs.

It said its referrals with "suicidal and financial needs" in Northumberland and North Tyneside had risen from 90 cases in January to March 2022, to 127 cases in July to September 2022.

Meanwhile, the number of referrals rose from 145 cases to 310 over the same period.

Adding to this, figures for referrals for "suicidal needs" showed a year-on-year increase from 121 cases in 2021, to 398 in 2022.

As a result, MHC provides practical help to help those struggling cope, including setting up packages from food banks, and non-clinical emotional support.

“Our team is working courageously to help provide the necessary support for those who need it, but we can only do so much" Mr Crampsie added.

"We need immediate action from the Government as soon as possible, to help ease the financial strains on our communities and prevent the situation from escalating any further.”

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The charity is also teaming up with local organisations to host ‘Winter Pressure’ events in communities across Newcastle.

These events will offer dedicated support to help navigate the cost of living, including guidance on council schemes, benefits, financial support, and dedicated mental health support.

MHC was established in 1986 and provides specialist mental health therapies, and is used mostly by the NHS and local authorities.

If anyone is struggling with their mental health, they can contact 0191 217 0377 or visit here.

If anyone is struggling with their mental health - the Samaritans number is 116 123.

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