Mental health has become a more prevalent subject in the UK in recent years, but there are still many people who live with conditions like depression and anxiety. Here we look at the free mental health support resources in the UK.
The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has only served to worsen mental health for many. Feelings of isolation and loneliness are natural during lockdown, and financial stress has also increased for those who may have had their employment and subsequent income disrupted.
There are many free mental health support resources that are available to those who may be struggling. Seeking out the proper help can make all the difference when it comes to managing your mental health. With that in mind, take the time to learn about how the mental health resources in this article may be able to assist you.
The NHS maintains urgent mental health helplines that are available at all times. These resources are for people of all ages and can be used for help in speaking to a mental health professional, an assessment on deciding the best course of care, or for advice and support. Callers can also contact a helpline if seeking guidance regarding someone else’s mental health.
This NHS resource provides long-term support for people in need. Initially, people seeking help will be asked to fill out a quiz that will develop a plan with a number of tips to help with various aspects of mental health, such as managing stress and improving your mood. In addition, Every Mind Matters offers a variety of guidance for coping with various issues, including stress related to COVID-19, financial problems, loneliness and more. Urgent support for those who may be considering suicide or self-harm is also available.
This mental health service is aimed specifically at people in the UK who are 18 years old or younger. Trained counsellors are prepared to help callers talk through any subject—such as bullying, domestic violence or relationships—and offer appropriate support. ChildLine is confidential and available at 0800 1111 between 09:00 and 03:30.
Samaritans offers advice and support for anyone seeking assistance with their mental health. Samaritans can be reached by calling 116 123 and is available 24 hours a day all year. This resource can also be contacted via email or handwritten letter. Those seeking assistance may also find Samaritans’ self-help app useful. This application keeps track of how you are feeling and provides recommendations for steps that can be taken to help yourself.
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
This general mental health service is endorsed by the NHS and provides both a helpline and an online chat service between 17:00 and 00:00 every night. CALM’s helpline can be reached at 0800 58 58 58.
This resource focuses on helping members of the LGBTQ community. Mind Out offers a variety of resources, including peer support groups and mentoring programmes. In addition, an online instant messaging service is available most weekdays from 17:30 to 19:30 and Sundays from 14:00 to 16:00. This chat service is confidential and anonymous. Additional hours are also often available. Check Mind Out’s website for updated hours and other information.
This text messaging service is available at all times and is intended to assist young people having a mental health crisis. Those seeking help will be connected with a trained volunteer ready to listen, ask questions and provide support. This resource allows you to remain anonymous, although a volunteer may share your information if they believe that you are in immediate danger.
Mind Infoline offers an anonymous way to discuss issues that you may be having with your mental health. The helpline can be reached at 0300 123 3393 from 09:00 to 18:00 Monday through Friday, excluding bank holidays. Callers can receive information about mental health, where to get help, treatment options and advocacy services. It is worth noting that Mind Infoline’s text support service will no longer be available after 31 March 2021 due to an increase in calls to the helpline.
 This mental health resource is intended for people under 25 years old. The Mix offers a variety of different types of short-term support. People seeking help can call 0808 808 4994 between 15:00 and 00:00 for telephone counselling. An online chat service is also generally available during the same hours, although chats may not be connected after 23:15. The Mix also offers a text messaging service that is available at all times for those who may be going through a mental health crisis.
Victim Support assists people who have been affected by crime or a traumatic event. This organisation offers a helpline that is available at all times and can be reached at 08 08 16 89 111. Help is also available anytime using a live messaging service. Additionally, Victim Support’s website will help connect you with other support services in your local area.
In Conclusion
It is important to understand that seeking assistance for your mental health is nothing to be ashamed of. There are many different ways that those in need can receive support, but the first step in the process may be admitting that you need help.
