A leading Scottish psychiatrist has been today awarded an Honour from Her Majesty the Queen.
Dr John Mitchell has been honoured with a CBE for improving mental health in Scotland.
He was a consultant psychiatrist and medical manager in Glasgow for 21 years and principal medical officer in the Scottish Government for six years.
During his time at the Scottish Government, he worked to increase recognition and funding for mental health – with investment in perinatal, early intervention and distress services.
Following a month of retirement, Dr Mitchell returned full-time to the Scottish Government to help with the response to the pandemic appearing regularly with the First Minister and other Ministers in media broadcasts.
Dr Mitchell continues to work as an adviser with the Scottish Government and World Health Organisation (WHO).
On receiving his CBE, Dr Mitchell said: “I am delighted to receive this honour, which reflects the importance of mental health in general, but especially in relation to the effect of the pandemic.”
This year, Dr Mitchell was awarded a President’s Medal from the Royal College of Psychiatrists in recognition of his career and work during the Covid-19 crisis.
Dr Adrian James, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: “I’m thrilled that John has been recognised in this way. His honour is richly deserved.
“His work has made a huge impact on our patients' lives and the wider population in Scotland - ensuring people with mental illness get the best possible help and treatment available.
“It is also a nod to the important contributions all mental health professionals are making, across the UK.”