MSP Maree Todd is urging people experiencing low mood, anxiety or distress in their lives to get in touch with Breathing Space.

Breathing Space provides practical advice, a listening ear and a lifelines to individuals across Scotland during their times of emotional distress.

The free and confidential phone service supporting mental health in Scotland will be celebrating its 20th anniversary next month.

Maree Todd, Mental Wellbeing minister, said: "I am grateful to the Breathing Space staff for the support they have provided to people feeling low, stressed, or anxious over the past 20 years - support which I know they continue to provide every day.

"This out of hours service complements other sources of mental health support available in person, by phone and online, including support from a GP, help via the 111 Mental Health Hub and the range of practical mental wellbeing tips on the NHS inform platform.

"Taking good care of our mental health and wellbeing is as important as looking after our physical health.

"I would urge anyone who is experiencing low mood, anxiety or distress in their lives to get in touch with Breathing Space or to look at the range of helpful advice on the Breathing Space and Mind to Mind websites."

In the last two decades, Breathing Space has answered more than 1.5 million calls and provided more than 96,000 hours of one-on-one support.

Tony McLaren, national coordinator of Breathing Space said: "For twenty years, Breathing Space has been a beacon of hope for people struggling with their mental health.

"We are incredibly proud of the difference we've made in supporting individuals and families across Scotland.

"Our commitment to providing accessible, confidential, and compassionate non-judgmental support remains unwavering, and we look forward to continuing to be a vital resource for many years to come."

Breathing Space forms partnerships with diverse organisations, from the Scottish Prison Service and the SFA to local housing associations and third sector organisations such as Change Mental Health.

These partnerships allows the service to offer specialised support tailored for specific needs, broadening its reach to more diverse communities across Scotland.

Jim Hume, director of Public Affairs, Policy and Communications at Change Mental Health, said: "Support should be available to everyone no matter where they live in Scotland.

"Change Mental Health’s partnership work with Breathing Space is vital to those in our services and in wider communities across Scotland.

"It ensures that people get the best support they need and when they need it. Change Mental Health look forward to further promoting the work of Breathing Space to help people get the best support and advice available."

The mental health charity reminds people that "you matter, we care", adding that for those needing help, a friendly voice and a listening ear are just a phone call away.

To access the free and confidential service, individuals can call 0800 83 85 87 or visit breathingspace.scot for online chat and resources.