One in four people experience a decline in their mental health each year. Poor mental health can affect anyone at any time of their lives, so it’s important that we all know what to do and where to go if we find that we’re struggling and are in need of support.
Visit your GP
You can speak to your GP if your mental health is preventing you from carrying out your usual activities. They will be able to refer you to the right treatment for you depending on your symptoms.
Your appointment will involve your doctor asking you some questions about your current circumstances, how you’re feeling and taking your medical history. To rule out any physical illness, they may also carry out some other checks such as taking your blood pressure or doing blood tests.
Unless your GP believes you are at serious risk of harm, everything you tell them will remain confidential.
Talk to a friend or relative
Chatting to a friend or relative about how you’re feeling can improve your mood, relieve stress and help you find new ways to cope. Sometimes, hearing another perspective can help you view your situation in a different way.
You may also find that you’re not alone – it’s likely they’ve experienced a similar situation to you before and can relate to your thoughts and feelings.
Your friend or relative can offer reassurance, help you out with daily tasks and even attend a GP appointment with you.
Helplines
There may be times when you need to talk to someone straight away. If this is the case, you can access the NHS urgent mental health helplines or contact the Samaritans on 116 123.
Local support groups
If you find talking therapies helpful, local support groups can be a great way to chat through your thoughts and feelings and share your experiences with others. This can feel hugely validating and reassuring for some people.
Mental health charity Mind has set up a peer support directory, so you can search for a support group near you.
Community support services
If your condition is more severe and long-lasting, you can be referred by your GP to a community support service. They will be able to support you in your own home with the daily tasks you’re struggling with.
Support workers will not try to take away your independence nor will they become intrusive. They’re trained to work alongside you, encouraging you to do things for yourself where you can, but being there for you when you can’t.
Residential Care
Residential care offers a greater level of support in cases where an individual isn’t able to live independently. This can be in the form of a hostel, a supported housing scheme or therapeutic community support.
Most residential care schemes are intended to be used in the short-term, although some people may need care for a longer period of time. As with community support services, the support workers will not invade your privacy. They’ll work with you towards recovery and promote your independence.
