A NEW YouTube video encouraging people to talk more about mental illness has been issued by health officials in Berkshire West.

Dr Angus Tallini, the mental health lead for the Clinical Commissioning Group, filmed the video as part of the NHS’s Every Mind Matters campaign.

READ MORE: Oxford Road closed after car ploughs into home

It is being released to tie in to a new mental health initiative being run by the NHS and the Football Association, which aims to harness the power and popularity of football and start the biggest ever conversation on mental health amongst players, fans and their friends and families.

Last weekend, (January 4-5), all Third Round football matches were delayed by one minute to encourage fans to pause and discover simple steps to start looking after their mental health.

READ MORE: Man arrested in Tilehurst for allegedly threatening to kill

Figures show one in four adults and one in 10 children experience mental health issues, and there are millions more family and friends who are caring for these people and are affected by the problem.

Every Mind Matters features a simple ‘Mind Plan’ which is designed to help people deal with stress and anxiety, boost their mood, improve sleep and help them feel more in control.

Since it was launched last October, more than 1 million people have completed their own personal Mind Plan.

Dr Tallini’s video talks about some of the easy and simple things people can do to help lift their mood and ease their anxiety and depression.

This includes connecting with others, being more active, giving time to do things like volunteer and also being aware of the problem and knowing where to look for help.

READ MORE: Man arrested in Lower Earley

Research shows that improved mental health and wellbeing leads to better physical health and life expectancy; improved educational achievement and employment rates and cuts in criminality and antisocial behaviour.

Dr Tallini, who is based at the Falkland Surgery in Newbury, said: "Many people struggle with mental health worries and we want them to feel more comfortable talking about them and seeking help.

"There's no shame in admitting you're not coping very well and the fact that one in four adults suffer mental health issues shows just how common it is.

"The NHS is working towards transforming mental health services so they are put on an equal footing as physical health problems.

"I hope the short video we’re screening on social media will be a useful first step for people wanting to know more.

"There's also a lot more information on www.nhs.uk."