Speaking following the meeting, Health Minister Robin Swann said, “We continue to closely monitor the impact of the pandemic on suicide and mental health and wellbeing.
“While suicide rates have not shown any increase during the pandemic period, I want to reassure people that services continue to be available for anyone in distress or despair.
“Today also provided an opportunity for members to hear about the development of the new Substance Use Strategy.
“Ministers have previously discussed the close linkages between this Strategy and emotional health and wellbeing and mental health.
He added, “Preventing harm from substance use and empowering recovery will also benefit our work on mental health and suicide prevention.”