MANY of us will experience mental health problems such as depression or anxiety at some time in our lives. This is nothing to be ashamed of, and there are positive steps we can all take to help us deal with life's low points. That's why I'm supporting the World Mental Health Day campaign.

Whenever I'm feeling down, I find that talking to my mum or close friend about what's on my mind is a really good pick-me-up. Bottling things up only makes them ten times worse.

Being there for others also helps to put your own problems into perspective, and I personally find there's nothing like a long walk to clear my head and give me space to think things through.

While the campaign is marked for October 10, what it has to say is relevant all our lives. For a free campaign pack, including a pocket-sized 'Positive Steps' guide, with tips on coping with tough times, put your name and address on a postcard to: Health Education Authority, WMHD, 30 Great Peter Street, London SW1P 2HW.

PATSY PALMER, for the Health Education Authority, London SW1.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.