Mental Health Resources and Support — Reference Guide

Resources and Support

Where to get help when you need it

? EMERGENCY

If you or someone else is in immediate danger:

Call 999

or go to your nearest A&E department

24/7 Crisis Support

Samaritans

Phone: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: www.samaritans.org

Samaritans provide confidential emotional support for anyone experiencing feelings of distress or despair. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)

Phone: 0800 58 58 58 (5pm-midnight daily)
Webchat: Available on their website
Website: www.thecalmzone.net

CALM is leading a movement against suicide. They provide support, raise awareness, and challenge stigma.

Shout

Text: 85258 (free, 24/7)
Website: www.giveusashout.org

Free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. Text SHOUT to 85258.

Mental Health Organisations

Mind

Infoline: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm)
Text: 86463
Website: www.mind.org.uk

Mind provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services and raise awareness.

Rethink Mental Illness

Advice Line: 0300 5000 927 (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-4pm)
Website: www.rethink.org

Rethink Mental Illness provides expert advice and information to people with mental health problems and those who care for them.

Mental Health Foundation

Website: www.mentalhealth.org.uk

The Mental Health Foundation provides information, carries out research, campaigns, and works to improve services for people affected by mental health problems.

Specific Conditions

Anxiety UK

Phone: 03444 775 774 (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-5:30pm)
Website: www.anxietyuk.org.uk

Anxiety UK provides support for people living with anxiety disorders.

Depression Alliance

Website: www.depressionalliance.org

Depression Alliance provides information and support for people living with depression.

OCD Action

Phone: 0300 636 5478 (Mon-Fri, 9:30am-5pm)
Website: www.ocdaction.org.uk

OCD Action provides support and information for people affected by Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

Bipolar UK

Website: www.bipolaruk.org
eCommunity: Online peer support available

Bipolar UK is a user-led charity dedicated to supporting people affected by bipolar.

NHS Services

NHS 111

Phone: 111 (24/7)
Website: 111.nhs.uk

For urgent medical help or advice when it's not a life-threatening emergency. Can direct you to local mental health crisis services.

Your GP

Your GP is often the first point of contact for mental health support. They can:

  • Assess your mental health
  • Prescribe medication if needed
  • Refer you to specialist services
  • Provide advice and support

NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT)

Website: Find your local service

Free talking therapies for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. You can refer yourself directly without going through your GP.

Workplace Support

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Many employers offer confidential Employee Assistance Programmes. Check with your HR department for:

  • Free, confidential counselling services
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Face-to-face counselling sessions
  • Online resources and tools
  • Legal and financial advice

Occupational Health

Your employer may have an Occupational Health service that can:

  • Assess your fitness for work
  • Recommend workplace adjustments
  • Provide health support and advice
  • Support your return to work after absence

Mental Health First Aiders

Check if your workplace has trained Mental Health First Aiders who can:

  • Provide initial support and a listening ear
  • Guide you towards appropriate resources
  • Help reduce stigma in the workplace

Online Resources

Every Mind Matters

Website: www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters

Free online tool and resources from NHS to help you take control of your mental health and wellbeing.

Headspace

Website: www.headspace.com

Meditation and mindfulness app with free and paid options for stress, anxiety, and sleep support.

Calm

Website: www.calm.com

App offering meditation, sleep stories, and relaxation techniques.

Support for Specific Groups

Young People

YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: Text YM to 85258
Childline: 0800 1111 (under 19s, 24/7)
The Mix: 0808 808 4994 (under 25s)

Veterans

Combat Stress: 0800 138 1619
Veterans Gateway: 0808 802 1212

LGBTQ+

Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline: 0300 330 0630
MindLine Trans+: 0300 330 5468

Remember

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There are many people and organisations ready to support you. You don't have to face mental health challenges alone.

If you're worried about someone else, encourage them to seek support and let them know these resources are available.

Related Topics

Further Information

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