A POWERFUL message has been sent to all those struggling with mental health during the coronavirus pandemic as the council hail the kindness of communities.

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, which ran nationally between May 18 and 24, council chiefs praised the community spirit in dealing with the crisis caused by COVID-19.

And they have paid tribute to those who have sadly passed due to the virus.

East Ayrshire Council Chief Executive Fiona Lees said: “ Almost all of us will now know someone who has had the virus and sadly, too many of us may know people who have died or who have lost loved ones.

“Life has never been more uncertain and that uncertainty takes its toll, bringing feelings of anxiety, stress and loneliness.

“It is okay not to be okay, but when we and those around us do not feel okay, it’s important we know where we can turn to for support.”

This years Mental Health Awareness week had a theme of kindness. And the council have praised the various acts of kindness shown to help the most vulnerable residents.

Thousands have volunteered as part of hundreds of resilience centres, with strong projects in Cumnock and Doon Valley.

Each of the groups have been carrying out essential food deliveries and offering telephone befriending to tackle loneliness.

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