This week Wycombe MP Steve Baker writes exclusively to Bucks Free Press readers:

Mental health is hugely important to our wellbeing and quality of life, yet too many people with mental health problems are made to feel isolated, worthless and ashamed.

February 1 was Time to Talk Day, an event started by charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness. The idea behind the event is to kick-start a new wave of discussions about mental health and break down the stigmas preventing people from seeking the care they need.

The Government believes that tackling poor mental health must be a priority, and that it should be treated with the same importance as physical health.

In recent years we have made huge progress in both understanding mental health issues and ensuring the people have access to top quality care.

The Government recently announced an additional £1 billion will be spent on mental health by 2020, so that people receive the right care when they need it most. As part of this, the Government is increasing the number of Mental Health professionals in the NHS by 21,000.

I am particularly delighted that a further £1.25 billion is to be invested into perinatal, children’s and young people’s mental health services.

This will help professionals to intervene early and more than double the number of pregnant women or new mothers receiving mental health support, as well as funding the training of around 1,700 new therapists.

The Government has also introduced the first-ever mental health access and waiting time standards, so that more people are seen by an expert quickly and given the care they need.

The latest data shows that 95 per cent of people referred with mental health problems start their treatment within the deadline. 

If you feel you are struggling to cope right now, you can talk in complete confidence for free, 24 hours a day by calling the Samaritans on 116 123.

Alternatively, visit the Healthy Minds Bucks website (www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/healthyminds), an NHS run service offering quick and easy access to support for those experiencing anxiety, depression or stress.