SYMPTOMS of mild to moderate mental health issues could be improved as part of a national research project being brought to Darlington.

The project may less people using NHS Mental Health Crisis Teams, as Darlington currently carries the highest number of crisis referrals in the Tees Valley area.

Those over 19-years-old, who struggle with anxiety, stress and low moods, can take part in the scheme offered by Darlington Borough Council’s Learning and Skills service.

The project will measure the impact of course attendance on an individual’s mental wellbeing before feeding back to nationwide research in a bid to secure Government funding for adult education courses in the future.

Alaine McCartney, Darlington Borough Council’s learning and skills manager, said: “Darlington has the highest number of referrals to the Mental Health Crisis Team in Tees Valley.

“Darlington is also the ninth-highest prescriber of medication relating to mental health in the country. Therefore it is important that we do all we can to protect and secure any future funding for education courses that will target and help learners with mental health issues in the Darlington area.”

Anyone interested in joining the project will have a one-to-one meeting with a learning and skills team member before completing three questionnaires to determine their eligibility for the six-week courses.

For more information, call 01325-405601, email l&s@darlington.gov.uk or visit darlington.gov.uk/learningandskills/CLMH