Mental health problems are very common in the UK. According to the charity, Mind, 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year.
Yet many avoid seeking help because we’re worried about the stigma. We fear we will be viewed as weak or judged or that we don’t even need to do anything about it.
However, by taking steps to protect our mental health and address any issues, we can help address our struggles and move towards a happier and healthier life.
If you had a heart problem or asthma, you’d do exactly the same. So why should mental health be any different?
To give you a push in the right direction, we’ve gathered together the best mental health resources that you can use now to get on the right track. This includes everything from support groups, lifestyle tricks and even help for when you’re really struggling.
Bookmark this page and return to it whenever you need to.
Urgent Support - Emergency Help
If you’re thinking about harming yourself or another person, you need to seek emergency help straight away.
Go straight to your local A&E or call 999 for help. If you have a local crisis team, you can also call them.
Someone to talk to
Talking to someone about what you’re going through can help. The following organisations offer trained volunteers who can offer confidential support.
Call Samaritans on 116 123 or email: jo@samaritans.org (UK-wide)
Text SHOUT to 85258 (UK-wide)
National Suicide Prevention Helpline offers a supportive listening service call 0800 689 5652 (open 24/7)
If you’re under the age of 19, you can also call Childline on 0800 1111. (The number will not appear on your phone bill.)
Get more help
Struggling with your mental health but not facing an emergency? Perhaps you’re not sure what to do but know you need help.
If so, use the NHS 111 online service, or call 111. They will be able to tell you how to access the advice and support you need.
You can also make an urgent appointment with your GP who can tell you about treatments and signpost you to local mental health support services.
In the meantime, you can also use the self-help tools here on the Mind website.
Mental health organisations
There are numerous mental health organisations across the UK that can help you take control of your mental health issues and get the support you need.
Stress management & burnout
Anxiety & stress
Mental health
Is your mental health problem not mentioned here? Speak to your local Whitworth pharmacy and they will help signpost you to the best service.
Online communities and support groups
Many of the mental health organisations we’ve mentioned above offer support groups and online communities or can signpost you to one. You can choose from face-to-face support groups or places where you can connect with others going through the same as you and chat. This includes:
There are also many Facebook support groups. Why not visit…
Lifestyle support
By making certain lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy, balanced diet, getting enough exercise, prioritising sleep and adopting practices such as mindfulness, you can help yourself to feel better.
Here are some useful links:
Exercise
Diet
Mindfulness
General
Our team has also created many blog posts that include resources to help you. Click the links below.
Blue Monday: How to Feel Better on the Most Depressing Day of the Year
10 Self-Care Tricks to Boost Your Mood When You’re Feeling Down
Final words
Mental health problems don’t need to be a sentence. You can take control and find the support you need to enjoy a healthier, happier life.
Pop into your local Whitworth Pharmacy if you need more help and support. Our friendly and understanding team is always here for you.
