February 27 2001

The vital role that friends and family members can play in supporting people with long term mental health issues is examined in a new video produced by Mental Health Media.

Called 'Friends and Family' and produced with funding from Lloyds TSB Foundation for England & Wales, the video focuses on four different relationships. In each, people who have survived serious mental health problems and their parents, partners and flatmates talk about the ways by which they have made their relationships work and discuss the challenges they have faced.

As well as offering useful advice on how to keep communication going and how to balance concern and independence, the video also shows how supporters can work with professionals and access the support that is available for carers.

'Friends and Family' is accompanied by booklet which contains useful contact details and practical advice. Areas covered include:-

details of support and counselling groups
care and practical arrangements for times of crisis
information on Carer's Rights and Respite
planning for the future

'Friends and Family' is available from March 15. Copies cost £39.95 (£24.95 for voluntary groups and individuals) including VAT and p+p (uk) and can be obtained by contacting Jenny Pearman at Mental Health Media on 0207 700 8171.

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For further information, or to request a review copy of 'Friends and Family' please contact Kate Summerside or Beate Kubitz at Mental Health Media on 0207 700 8171. Email kate.summerside@mhmedia.com

NOTES TO EDITORS

1) 'Friends and Family' has been produced in collaboration with Depression Alliance, Manic Depression Fellowship, and National Schizophrenia Fellowship.

2) Mental Health Media is a voluntary organisation which promotes understanding of mental health through the voices of people in order to reduce the discrimination and prejudice surrounding mental health and learning difficulties. Mental Health Media offers a range of video and new media training materials, provides tailored media training courses and works with journalists and broadcasters to inform their coverage of mental health stories.