Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson has joined a whole host of other musical and sporting personalities to back the new campaign from mental health organisation The Mind Map, which is looking to train teachers in mental health first aid.

Joining the likes of Blossoms, Black Lips, The Big Moon and England footballer Leighton Baines in talking about mental health to The Mind Map, Jason said: “We spoke to The Mind Map as opening up about mental health helps reduce the stigma. Their campaign to train teachers in Mental Health First Aid is very worthwhile and one we support.”

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Founded by editor and Mental Health First Aid instructor Phil Bridges, The Mind Map normalise mental health through their online magazine content, exhibitions, and events. With it, they strive to help young people navigate towards mental health services and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Providing workshops for young people, they are also working with Liverpool John Moores University to research the mental health support currently available for UK students.

Founder Phil Bridges said: “Getting bands talking about their challenges and how they stay mentally well sends out a positive message to young people that we all have mental health. Whilst on our site, visitors can then use our service directory to find mental health services should they wish to.”

“With 50% of mental illnesses starting before age 14, we wish to train teachers and those working with young people in Mental Health First Aid so they can spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill health, listen non-judgementally and signpost towards support.

“We wish to contribute to a culture where mental health has parity with physical health – where every young person has access to support if they need it.”

Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses are for everyone who works with, lives with or supports young people aged 8-18. In becoming a Mental Health First Aider you can speed up a young person’s recovery and stop a mental health issue from getting worse.

You can support The Mind Map to train teachers in Youth Mental Health First Aid via their Crowdfunder.