THE sad deterioration of former world heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno has put mental health into the headlines in the past week.

His decline - resulting in his being sectioned under the Mental Health Act - has highlighted the plight of many thousands of people across the country who face a daily struggle to maintain their psychological well-being.

The decision, as reported on today's Page 3, of South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust to change the set-up of free counselling services available at GP surgeries has some worrying implications.

Yes, we understand that the Trust has put in place a new system whereby those that need counselling can still receive it.

Yes, we understand that there is a need to balance the best provision of services for a community within a strict budget.

And, yes, we do applaud the fact that the Trust is attempting to provide free counselling services across the whole of the south of the county.

However, the loss of experienced counsellors from some GP surgeries will, we believe, have a detrimental effect on our community's mental health.

GP surgeries are everyone's first port of call if they have a problem. They are the place people go - not just for physical check-ups, but for advice and support as well.

Those suffering the effects of mental illness need support - and they need it in an environment they trust, by people they trust.

Admitting that you need help is often the hardest part of tackling a mental illness - and continuity of treatment is vital.