2020 has been a tough year and we've all been doing what we can to get through it. While some people have gained good habits during lockdown like exercising more frequently, that's not been the case for me.

The #HelloMojo campaign is about doing something that you know makes you feel better, while raising money to support vital mental health services at this time. So I have chosen to give up alcohol for the month of September. Now that things are opening again, it seems like socialising is beginning to focus on the pub again and this feels like a good time to press pause.

COVID-19 means a lot of people are struggling with their mental health and wellbeing - both because of the illness, but also from social distancing and other restrictions. Early research shows the impact is greater on those living in multiple deprivation, and BAME, communities. Those with pre-existing mental health difficulties are also impacted – their usual community supports having closed or moved online. The significance of how we support people now will be long-lasting for their future wellbeing and resilience.

Health in Mind is a charity promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. Our unique mix of services includes befriending projects, information, counselling services and specialised trauma support. During this challenging time, we have moved many of our services to online and over the phone support. We use creative and innovative approaches to continue supporting people, for example we hold a fortnightly peer support group using Zoom and have launched a distance befriending project to support those struggling with isolation and loneliness during this time. Thanks to fundraising and donations these vital services enable more than 3,500 people every year to access the help they need.