A HEALTH authority is ploughing half a million pounds into increasing the number of psychological therapies on offer so people with mental health issues get help quickly.

The scheme will offer early intervention to try and limit or avoid the need for medication, time off work and unemployment.

It's being run by Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation for the Vale of York clinical group.

One in four people are likely to experience mental ill health during their life often brought on by significant events like bereavement, unemployment, relationship breakdown, stress or traumatic events.

The Trust say talking therapy uses the least intrusive method possible to treat people including telephone assessments, one-to-one sessions, online courses, and group therapy depending on peoples needs. There is evidence to show it helps people recover from mental health and people can self refer at yorkandselbyiapt.co.uk/online-referral-form/

Naomi Lonergan, for Tees Valley Trust said: "We remain committed to providing high quality services supporting local people experiencing problems with low mood and anxiety. Improving access to psychological therapies locally is key to helping people to get back on track."