Views on mental heath are sought

People in Somerset have been asked their views on how to improve support for people with depression, anxiety, phobias and stress-related illnesses.

Somerset PCT said GPs were treating more than 35,000 people for mental health issues and diagnosed more than 2,000 new cases of depression in 2007.

The PCT said by helping more people recognise symptoms, it could assist them in finding help and treatment.

Its proposals highlight the growing demand for "talking therapies".

'Public meeting'

This involves talking, questioning and listening in order to understand and manage a person's problems.

The PCT said many more people could benefit from talking therapy and it hoped to improve the range and accessibility of these services.

Somerset PCT is to hold a public consultation meeting on its proposals in Taunton on 11 January at the Albermarle Centre starting at 1030 GMT.

It hopes that the views of local people will influence the future development of more and better co-ordinated support and local services.

The closing date for responses is 8 February.