FOOTBALL is being used as a vehicle to encourage people to talk about mental health.

The ‘No Substitute’ campaign being launched by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and North Riding County Football Association uses football to get the message out that there is help available and that talking about mental health is not a sign of weakness.

The campaign is also being supported by Middlesbrough Football Club's MFC Foundation and over the coming weeks residents will see the campaign feature online and on bus shelters across Redcar and Cleveland.

Cabinet member for health, housing and welfare, Steve Kay, said: “A lot of people are feeling the strain right now, but they don’t need to cope on their own.

“The ‘Every Mind Matters’ website and the fantastic courses the MFC Foundation deliver in our communities, can help you tackle the challenges that you might be facing and help you feel more in control.

“The site has a free planner and tips on how to deal with stress and anxiety, improving sleep and boosting your mood so why not do something now about the way you are feeling.”

Lee Harding, of the MFC Foundation, added: “I think it's really important to look after our mental health as much as our physical health, as they are both interlinked.

"Keeping up physical activities will really help with your mood, sleep patterns and self-confidence.

“But if you are struggling please talk to someone a friend, family or your GP and ask for help which can come in many forms but it all starts with a conversation and opening up.

“Men it's not a weakness but a strength to open up and ask for help.

“The MFC Foundation have lots of programmes that can help you on your journey such as our Team Talk Group, please visit mfcfoundation.co.uk for more details.”

Andy Clay, from the North Riding County Football Association, explained: "When we were approached by the council to take part in this health campaign, we jumped at the chance.

“Football is a great way to get messages out there and as a team we want to raise the awareness of the simple actions we can all take to look after our mental health.”

To find out more visit nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters or mfcfoundation.co.uk