Hartlepool ex-Corrie actor urges people to speak out as lockdown affects mental health

Dan Westwood who set up the #Here4u social media campaign backed by many celebrities, highlighted the importance of speaking out ahead of World Metal Health Day this weekend.

The awareness day is held every October 10 and this year's theme set by the World Federation for Mental Health is mental health for all.

Dan, who played Kylie Platt’s pal Ralph in the ITV soap, said: “I think everyone knows that with the lockdown situation things have got worse for people and their mental health.

"Lockdown may be a trigger for a mental health issue you didn’t know you had.

"People need to know there are people they can reach out to more than ever.

"Suicides have also gone up, especially in men, which is something I’m really passionate about.

"I know I say it all the time but speak out. There isn’t a lot of funds for mental health services, but there’s always going to be someone there to chat to.”

Dan, 35, currently a DJ with Tameside Radio based in Greater Manchester, set up #Here4U after suffering anxiety and panic attacks in TV studios and whilst on stage appearing in the CBeebies LIVE show.

He also wanted to spread some positivity on the sometimes dark and dangerous internet and social media after losing friend and Love Island star to suicide.

The movement reached over 25k retweets on Twitter alone in its first day of launching as Coronation Street actress Georgia Taylor recorded the first video message.

Now various celebrities from The Hairy Bikers, Claire Sweeney, Anthony Costa from band Blue, to local councillors and members of the public have recorded short videos pledging to be there for those struggling with anxiety.

They are added almost daily to the campaign’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

The campaign continues to grow with support from people in Ireland, Los Angeles, Dubai and even Australia.

Dan is also a proud ambassador for mental health charity Mind and Men Walk Talk which promotes group walks for men.

He is also working on a new podcast due out in November.

Follow #Here4u on Instagram, Twitter @westwooddan and Facebook.

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