THE Tele's 'Time to Talk Day' campaign has proved a huge success with many local people inspired to seek help with their problems.

Last Thursday we had a social media 'cleanse' and used our platforms to share only good news.

As well has sharing positive stories about local people overcoming struggle and adversity, the campaign was endorsed by a whole host of celebrities.

DJ George Bowie, Celtic star Greg Taylor and Britain's Got Talent finalist Edward Reid were among those who sent video messages of support and encouragement which were shared across our platforms.

Our printed copies had a makeover on Wednesday and Thursday as our masthead adopted the 'Time to Talk Day' logo and we shared some powerful stories of people overcoming their own battles.

We also highlighted local and national organisations for people going through difficult times and encouraged them to reach out for help.

The initiative has been extremely well received by members of the public.

Comments have poured in on social media, with kind messages of support revealing how many people found the day inspiring.

Since the campaign, our newsroom has also been contacted by a string of local mental health and counselling charities featured, who have reported a surge in demand for their services thanks to the initiative.

Man On Inverclyde founder Chris Paul, who supported the campaign alongside other members of the community interest company, said: "We were delighted with the response from the day and had a few men reach out to us looking for support and some enquiring about what we do, which is excellent.

"The best part about an initiative like this is the real positivity within the community and we hope this can be transferred on a daily basis.

"Raising awareness of mental health is the only way we remove the stigma attached to it."

Emma McKinnon, a cognitive behavioural therapist at Mind Mosaic Counselling & Therapy, bravely shared her own personal story of overcoming post-natal depression and says she received countless messages from other mums.

She said: "I was delighted to be given the opportunity to participate in Time to Talk Day.

"I was hopeful that by sharing my experience others would be encouraged to reach out - and I can say I received lots of messages from people with similar experiences to my own.

"I got lots of positive feedback on using my experiences as a passion to help others."

Emma, who is in the process of setting up a support group for new parents who may be struggling, also received many enquiries from people looking to join.

She added: "Parents have been contacting us in regards to the groups at Mind Mosaic. Because of the Tele's social media posts they felt they were able to come forward and ask for support too."

Chief executive of Mind Mosaic Counselling & Therapy, Gwyneth MacDonald says there has been a surge in enquiries from people looking for support since the campaign ran.

She added: "We seen a surge in interest in what we do.

"I think seeing people speaking about mental health issues can definitely support others to come forward.

"This was a fantastic initiative."