Bailey Grace interviews Matt Davies, a digital transformation lead at Pennine GP Alliance to discuss the NHS app's benefits for teens and young adults.

The app allows users to order prescriptions, manage appointments, view health records, and get quick advice on symptoms. It also supports proxy access for caregivers.

Key features include two-factor authentication and secure access to health data. However, some GP surgeries may not offer all functionalities. The app is expanding to integrate with wearables and offer new features like "My GP" for non-urgent care.

The app is available on your phone's App Store (Apple App Store for iPhone or Google Play for Android), search NHS App and tap "Install". For full details click the NHS guide here: https://digital.nhs.uk/services/nhs-app/toolkit/step-by-step-guide

Special thanks to:

• Calderdale Cares Partnership https://www.calderdalecares.co.uk/,
• Calderdale VAC https://www.cvac.org.uk/
• NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board https://www.westyorkshire.icb.nhs.uk/

For their help and support in making this episode.

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Special thanks to Locala for hosting us www.locala.org.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.

Finally special thanks to Jimi for editing and for Paul A Jackson for the music.

In this episode, Ella and Ruby from Invictus Wellbeing discuss how small issues can escalate into significant mental health problems if not addressed early.

Ruby emphasises that mental health support is crucial even before a crisis, likening it to preventive care. She explains that ignoring feelings can lead to burnout and anxiety, which can worsen if left unchecked.

Ruby advises on early signs of struggle, such as anxiety, changes in behavior, and sleep patterns, and stresses the importance of self-care and seeking help. She reassures that mental health support is not selfish but essential for personal and societal well-being.

In this episode, Finley discusses normalising mental health with Ruby from Invictus Wellbeing.

Ruby explains that the stigma around mental health often deters young people from seeking help. She emphasises that mental health struggles are common and not needing a diagnosis to take care of one's mental health is normal.

Ruby suggests using direct language to discuss mental health issues and educating others to reduce stigma. She advises choosing who to confide in and highlights the role of schools, friends, and social media in reducing mental health stigma. Normalizing mental health is crucial for easier access to support and making people feel safer to discuss their issues.