Chambers: “Mental health must never be a silent struggle” – Senedd candidate calls for stronger local support
Today, Time to Talk Day, Tyler Chambers, Senedd candidate for Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd, has called for renewed focus on mental health support in Powys, stressing that no one should feel alone or unheard when they are struggling.
Time to Talk Day, led by mental health charity, Mind, is about breaking the silence around mental health and encouraging open, honest conversations. This year’s message is simple but powerful: talking can change lives.
Speaking on mental health, Tyler Chambers said: “Mental health affects every family, every community, and every generation. Yet too many people still feel they have to suffer in silence, especially in rural areas like ours, where isolation and access to services can make things even harder.”
As part of marking Time to Talk Day, Chambers has written directly to Powys County Council and to the Welsh Government, asking what mental health and wellbeing support is currently available for residents in Brecon and Radnorshire, and how people are being helped to access it when they need it most.
“If we are serious about mental health, we have to be serious about access to support, not just in theory, but on the ground. People need to know where to turn, and they need confidence that help will be there when they do,” added the Senedd candidate.
He believes that rural communities face unique challenges, including distance from services, transport barriers, and loneliness and that these realities must be reflected in policy and funding decisions.
“Talking is the first step, but it cannot be the last. We need strong local services, early intervention, and community-based support that recognises the pressures people are under whether that’s anxiety, depression, loneliness, or simply feeling overwhelmed,” said Chambers.
“I want mental health to be treated with the same urgency and seriousness as physical health. That means listening to people, challenging complacency, and making sure our rural communities are not left behind.”
On Time to Talk Day, Tyler is encouraging residents across Brecon and Radnorshire to check in on friends, family, neighbours and colleagues, and to remember that starting a conversation really can make a difference.
