The Public Health Agency (PHA) has unveiled its latest Living Well pharmacy campaign, Managing Anxiety, encouraging people to take practical steps to protect their mental health. The initiative will run across August and September in community pharmacies.

Living Well showcases the key role pharmacy teams play in offering advice and support at the heart of local communities. Delivered in partnership with the PHA, Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI) and the Department of Health (DoH), the campaign shares practical tips and signposting so people know where to find help when it's needed.

A series of short breathing-technique videos with top tips is available at www.MindingYourHead.info, guiding viewers through simple approaches that can help with anxiety.

Alison McCusker, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: "Anxiety is a feeling of unease, fear or worry, and feeling anxious from time to time is something most of us experience. It can be related to a variety of things such as health, finances, work, or relationships. It is also possible to feel anxious without knowing what is causing you to feel that way."

"Through our Living Well Managing Anxiety campaign, we want to help people understand that there are practical steps we can all take to support our mental wellbeing. Small actions, such as staying connected with others, being physically active, practising calming techniques and making time for activities we enjoy, can all help us feel better equipped to cope. "A certain level of anxiety can be helpful, motivating us to prepare for challenges or important events such as exams, interviews or work deadlines. However, when feelings of anxiety become overwhelming or start to affect our daily lives, it is important to recognise this and seek support.

"It is also important that people know they are not alone and that support is available through healthcare services and community and voluntary organisations with experienced professionals providing help across Northern Ireland when you need it. No one should feel that they have to manage anxiety on their own."

Anxiety can affect people in many ways — influencing how we feel, think and behave, as well as causing physical symptoms. While it can be overwhelming, recovery is possible, particularly with timely and appropriate support.

Through Living Well, more than 500 community pharmacies across Northern Ireland provide trusted, accessible advice and resources. Pharmacists can offer a listening ear, signpost to relevant services and share information materials, including leaflets on managing anxiety.

Rebekah Rea, Community Pharmacist at Mathewson's Pharmacy, Ballymoney, said: "Community pharmacies are often one of the most accessible healthcare settings for people who may be struggling with their mental health. Many people speak to their pharmacist regularly and feel comfortable seeking advice in a familiar environment."

"Sometimes a conversation is all it takes to help someone realise they are not alone and that support is available. Community pharmacists can provide information on managing anxiety, direct people to appropriate services and help them take positive steps towards improving their wellbeing."

For further information on managing anxiety and the support available, visit www.pha.site/livingwell or speak to your local community pharmacist.