Mental health difficulties can be treated in various different ways such as medication and lifestyle changes, but sometimes simply talking to someone else can help individuals face their troubles.

Counselling is a form of psychological or talking therapy which offers people a chance to change how they feel and to live better.

It provides a regular time and space for people to talk about their troubles and explore difficult feelings, in an environment which is dependable, free from intrusion and confidential.

Counsellors can help those with mental health difficulties to deal with specific problems, cope with crises, improve relationships, or develop better ways of living.

Central Notts MIND general manager, Girish Ravat, says despite the name, counsellors do not usually offer advice.

"Counsellors help people to gain insight into their feelings and behaviour and to change behaviour if necessary," he said.

"They do this by listening to what individuals have to say and commenting on it from their particular professional perspective.

"Counselling sessions usually take place once a week. Making this regular commitment gives people a better chance of getting to the heart of their difficulties.

"Counselling can help people overcome mental health problems, such as depression or an eating disorder, even if they are already getting other kinds of help from a GP or psychiatrist."

Central Notts MIND offers confidential counselling services to clients who need to discuss their difficulties on a one-to-one basis and Girish says it is evident there is a need for the charity to provide the service as there is currently a waiting list.

• Anyone interested in becoming a Central Notts MIND volunteer or trustee or who would like to organise a charity event or make a donation to Central Notts MIND should contact Girish on Mansfield 658044.