Huge increase in mental health referrals

THREE people are being referred for mental health support in Dumfries and Galloway every day as the cost of living crisis continues.

This is being directly linked to ongoing financial struggles being faced by thousands of people across the region, and high rates of domestic abuse.

Dumfries and Galloway’s Mental Health Team has received a total of 551 referrals in the first six months of 2025/26 – which equates to an average of three per day.

This figure is also a significant jump of 236 referrals from the same six-month period the previous year.

The stats, which underline the difficulties being faced by many residents during these tough financial times, was presented to councillors at Dumfries and Galloway Council’s social work committee on Tuesday.

A data report for the first six months of the year states: “During the reporting period, our Mental Health Team received a total of 551 referrals, an increase of 75 percent in comparison to 315 received in quarter one and quarter two of 2024/2025.

“Of the referrals received within this reporting period, 74 were for an emergency detention certificate – an increase of 96 per cent in comparison to quarter one and quarter two of 2024/2025 where we received 38 referrals.

“The remaining referrals, account for 79 for a short-term detention certificates – an increase of 98 percent in comparison to 2024/2025 where we received 40 referrals.”

Social work chiefs explained there are numerous reasons for more people being referred by medical experts.

The report states: “Reasons for the increase in referrals received include: increased complexity of cases; referrals required for co-occurring problems (mental illness/substance misuse/homelessness/or safeguarding concerns).

“Cost of living crisis; rising prices for essentials create financial insecurity, which is strongly linked to anxiety and chronic stress. “People worry about bills and debt, which can lead to sleep problems, irritability, and panic symptoms.

“Financial hardship, domestic abuse, and isolation often accompany mental health crises, making interventions more complex.”

An EDC is a legal document that allows a person to be held in a hospital for up to 72 hours for urgent assessment of a mental disorder, especially when they pose a significant risk to themselves or others and their decision-making is impaired.

Meanwhile, an STDC is an entry route to detention under the Mental Health Act, and involves a report being completed by a mental health officer that lasts for up to 28 days.