I need help...
Abuse
If you have been abused, or fear you have, it can be hard to take the first step in seeking help – especially if you have tried to talk about the issue to friends, family or professionals and have not had a response that helped you.
Samaritans
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk
116 123samaritans.org
Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
jo@samaritans.org24-hour
Victim Support
Provides emotional and practical support for people affected by crime and traumatic events.
0808 168 9111
victimsupport.org.uk
The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
A charity supporting adult survivors of any form of childhood abuse. Provides a support line and local support services.
0808 168 9111
napac.org.uk
TANSAL
Provides information on books, training, UK events and links for survivors of any type of child abuse, and those supporting them.
tansal.50megs.com
Childline
Support for children and young people in the UK, including a free 24-hour helpline.
0800 1111
childline.org.uk
Kidscape
Information and advice for parents with concerns about school bullying and abuse.
020 7823 5430
kidscape.org.uk
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)
Support for children and anyone worried about a child.
0800 800 500000800 1111(18 or under)
nspcc.prg.uk
YoungMinds
Committed to improving the mental health of babies, children, and young people, including support for parents and carers.
0808 802 5544 (parents helpline)
85258(crisis messenger service, text YM)
youngminds.ork.uk
Action on Elder Abuse
Helpline for anyone concerned in any way about the abuse of older people.
0808 8088141
elderabuse.org.uk
Respond
Provides a range of services for people with learning disabilities, including both victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse as well as families, carers, and professionals.
0207 383 0700
respond.org.uk
Mencap
Information and advice for people with a learning disability, families, and carers.
0808 808 1111
mencap.org.uk
Refuge
Support, information, and advocacy for women and children experiencing violence and abuse.
0808 2000 247
refuge.org.uk
Women's Aid (England)
Information and support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse, including a directory of local services
0808 2000 247
womensaid.org.uk
Men's Advice Line
Confidential advice and support for men experiencing domestic violence and abuse by a current or ex-partner or family member
0808 801 0327
mensadviceline.org.uk
Ashiana Sheffield
Aims to prevent murder and serious harm to Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic, and Refugee women in England, Wales and Scotland as a result of domestic abuse and forced marriage and 'honour'-based violence. Also supports children and young people.
0114 255 5740
ashianasheffield.org
Respect
Information and support for people who are worried about their violent or aggressive behaviour towards loves ones, and for male victims of domestic abuse.
respect.uk.net
Respect Not Fear
Website for young people about domestic violence
respectnotfear.co.uk
The Hide Out
Women's Aid website to help young people understand domestic abuse and what to do if it's happening to them.
thehideout.org.uk
The Forced Marriage Unit
Joint initiative between the Foreign Office and Home Office. It assists actual and potential victims of forced marriage, as well as professionals.
gov.uk/forced-marriage
Help for Adult Victims of Child Abuse (HAVOCA)
Information and support for adults affected by childhood abuse, including an online support forum
havoca.org
Lifecentre
Support for survivors of sexual abuse and anyone supporting them, including a helpline, text support, and email counseling
0808 802 0808 (freephone)
07717 989 022 (textline)
lifecentre.uk.com
The Lantern Project
Help and support for survivors of childhood sexual abuse, including an online forum
lanternproject.org.uk
One in Four
Advocacy service, counseling service (available over SKype and in several languages) and information for people who have experienced sexual abuse.
oneinfour.org.uk
The Survivors Trust
Lists loval specialist services for survivors of sexual violence, including advocates and Independent Sexual Violence Advisorws (ISVAs)
08088 010 818
thesurvivorstrust.org
CIS'ters (Childhood Incest Survivors)
Provides help and support for adults women who suffered incestuous abuse in childhood.
023 8033 808
cisters.org.uk
Rape Crisis
Information and support for anyone affected by rape and sexual violence. Includes details of local centres.
rapecrisis.org.uk
Mankind
Provides one-to-one counseling, therapeutic groups, and couple counselling to men (age 18+) who have experienced sexual abuse at any time in their lives
mkcharity.org
Survivors UK
Support for men who have experienced rape or sexual abuse
020 3598 3898/020 3322 1860 (SMS)
074 9181 6064 (Whatsapp)
survivorsuk.org
Mosaic
Support, advice, and information for non-abusing parents and carers whose children have been sexually abused
0800 980 1958
mosaic.org.uk
Lucy Faithfull Foundation
Offers a range of services for individuals and families looking for help, advice, support, and intervention with issues relating to child sexual abuse
0808 1000 900
lucyfaithfull.org.uk
Stop it Now!
Confidential freephone helpline for people who are struggling with sexual thoughts and behaviours towards children, or are concerned about someone else's behaviour.
0808 1000 900
Stopitnow.org.uk
Addiction
If you have been abused, or fear you have, it can be hard to take the first step in seeking help – especially if you have tried to talk about the issue to friends, family or professionals and have not had a response that helped you.
NHS Live Well
Advice, tips, and tools to help with health and wellbeing
nhs.uk/livewell
Beating Addictions
Information about a range of addictive behaviours and treatments
beating addictions.co.uk
Addaction
Supports people with drug, alcohol, or mental health problems, and their friends and family
0808 168 9111
victimsupport.org.uk
Adfam
Information and support for friends and family of people with drug or alcohol problems
adfam.org.uk
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Help and support for anyone with alcohol problems
0800 9177 650
alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
The Alliance
User-led organization that provides information and advocacy for people accessing treatment for drug and alcohol problems
m-alliance.org
Club Drug Clinic
Help for people worried about their use of recreational drugs
020 3315 6111
clubdrugclinic.cnwl.nhs.uk
Cocaine Anonymous UK
Help and support for anyone who wants to stop using cocaine
0800 612 0225
cauk.org.uk
Drink Aware
Information about managing alcohol safety
drinkaware.co.uk
DrugWise
Information about drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
drugwise.org.uk
Erowld
Information about psychoactive substances, including prescribed drugs
erowid.org
Families Anonymous
Support for friends and family of people with drug problems
0207 4984 680
famanon.org.uk
FRANK
Confidential advice and information about drugs, their effects, and the law
0300 123 6600
talktofrank.com
Gamblers Anonymous
Support groups for anyone wanting to stop gambling
gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Gamcare
Information and support for people wanting to stop gambling, including a helpline and online forum
0808 8020 133
gamcare.org.uk
Marijuana Anonymous
Help for anyone worried about cannabis use
0300 124 0373
marijuana-anonymous.co.uk
National Association for Children of Alcoholics
Provides information, advice, and support for everyone affected by a parent's drinking, including adults
0808 358 3456
acoa.org.uk
National Problem Gambling Clinic
Treats problem gamblers living in England and Wales aged 16 and over
cnwl.nhs.uk/cnwl-national-problem-gambling-clinic
Narcotics Anonymous
Support for anyone who wants to stop using drugs
0300 999 1212
ukna.org
Progress - National Consortium of Consultant Nurses in Dual Diagnosis and Substance Use
Website for nurses, which includes information for people with dual diagnosis
dualdiagnosis.co.uk
Release
National charity that gives free and confidential advice about drugs and the law
020 7324 2989
release.org.uk
Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous
Support groups for people with sex and love addictions
020 7293 0994
slaauk.org
NHS Smokefree
Information and advice to help stop smoking
turning-point.co.uk
Turning Point
Provides health and social care services for people with drug, alcohol, and mental health problems.
turning-point.co.uk
Advocacy
Rethink Mental Illness
Provides support and information for anyone affected by mental health problems, including loval support groups
0300 5000 927
rethink.org
Santé Refugee Mental Health Access Project
Provides advocacy and befriending for vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers
santeproject.org.uk
SEAP
The advocacy organization SEAP have produced a tool to help people prepare for benefits assessments
seap.org.uk
Shelter Cymru
Provides free, confidential advice on housing and homelessness in Wales
0345 975 5005
sheltercymru.org.uk
Shelter England
Provides free, confidential advice on housing and homelessness in England
0808 800 4444
england.shelter.org.uk
VoiceAbility
Provides advocacy services across England
voiceability.org
British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Professional body for talking therapy and counseling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.
bacp.org.uk
Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT)
Information about local NHS therapy and counseling services which you can often self refer to (England only)
nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-psychological-therapies-service
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare
nice.org.uk
NHS Service Finder
Searchable database of NHS services in England
nhs.uk/service-search
No More Panic
Provides information, support, and advice for those with panic disorder, anxiety, phobias or OCD, including a forum and chat room
nomorepanic.org.uk
No Panic
Provides information, advice, and support for everyone affected by a parent's drinking, including adults
0844 967 4848
nopanic.org.uk
Samaritans
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk
116 123samaritans.org
Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
jo@samaritans.org24-hour
Triumph Over Phobia (TOP UK)
Provides self-help therapy groups and support for those with OCD, phobias, and related anxiety disorders
topuk.org.uk
Arts and Creative Therapy
Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK
Professional body for dance movement therapists. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.
admp.org.uk
British Association for Music Therapy
Professional body for music therapists. Provides information about music therapy and a register of accredited therapists.
020 7837 6100
bamt.org.uk
British Association of Art Therapists
Professional body for visual art therapists. Provides information about art therapy and a register of accredited therapists
baat.org
British Association of Dramatherapists
Professional body for dramatherapists. Provides information about art therapy and a register of accredited therapists
badth.org.uk
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Regulates some types of health, psychology, and social work professionals
hcpc-uk.co.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare
nice.org.uk
Nordoff Robbins
Charity that provides music therapy and accepts self-referrals
nordoff-robbins.org.uk
Roundabout Dramatherapy
Charity that conducts long-term and short-term dramatherapy projects
roundaboutdramatherapy.org.uk
Benefits Helplines
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential information and advice on your rights, including with money, housing, legal, and other problems
03444 111 333(adviceline)
03444 111 445(text relay)
citizensadvice.org.uk
Disability Rights UK
Information and support for people living with disability
disabilityrightsuk.org
GOV.UK
Lists government services and information
gov.uk
Scope
Provides practical information and emotional support for disabled people.
0808 800 3333
scope.org.uk
SEAP
The advocacy organization SEAP have produced a tool to help people prepare for benefits assessments.
seap.org.uk
Shelter England
Provides free, confidential advice on housing and homelessness in England
0808 800 4444
england.shelter.org.uk
Turn2Us
Helps people in financial difficulty to access benefits, grants, and support services.
turn2us.org.uk
Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder is a condition characterized by difficulties regulating emotion. This means that people who experience BPD feel emotions intensely and for extended periods of time, and it is harder for them to return to a stable baseline after an emotionally triggering event.
Name of Resource
Uses the arts to raise awareness of borderline personality disorder and reduce stigma.
borderlinearts.org
The Consortium for Therapeutic Communities
Online directory of therapeutic communities across the UK
therapeuticcommunities.org
FRANK
Confidential advice and information about drugs, their effects, and the law
0300 123 6600
talktofrank.com
Harmless
User led organization that supports people who self-harm, and their friends and family.
harmless.org.uk
The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
A charity supporting adult survivors of any form of childhood abuse. Provides a support line and local support services.
0808 801 0331
napac.org.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare
nice.org.uk
NHS UK
Information about health problems and treatments, including details of local NHS services in England
nhs.uk
Personality Disorder
Website commissioned by the UK Department of Health. Includes information and details of local services in England.
personalitydisorder.org.uk
Samaritans
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk
116 123samaritans.orgFreepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
jo@samaritans.org
Carers Trust
Information and support for people caring for someone else
carer.org
Carers UK
Advice and support for people caring for someone else
0808 808 7777
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential information, and advice on your rights, including with money, housing, legal, and other problems.
03444 111 444 (adviceline)
03444 111 445 (text relay)
citizensadvice.org.uk
NHS Choices - Carers Direct
Information from the NHS on support available to carers
nhs.uk/carersdirect
C
Carers Support
Carers Trust
Information and support for people caring for someone else
carersus.org
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential information and advice on your rights, including with money, housing, legal, and other problems
03444 111 333(adviceline)
03444 111 445(text relay)
citizensadvice.org.uk
NHS Choices - Carers Direct
Information from the NHS on support available to carers
nhs.uk/carersdirect
Rethink Mental Illness
Provides support and information for anyone affected by mental health problems, including local support groups
0300 5000 927
rethink.org
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Professional body for psychiatrists. Includes information about mental health problems and treatments.
rcpsych.ac.uk
Samaritans
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk
116 123samaritans.orgFreepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
jo@samaritans.org
Time to Change
National campaign to end stigma and discrimination against people with mental health problems in England and Wales
time-to-change.org.uk (England)
timetochangewales.org.uk (Wales)
Turn2Us
Helps people in financial difficulty to access benefits, grants, and support services
turn2us.org.uk
YoungMinds
Committed to improving the mental health of babies, children, and young people, including support for parents and carers
0808 802 5544 (parents helpline)
85258 (crisis messenger service, text YM)
youngminds.org.uk
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of talking treatment which focuses on how your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes affect your feelings and behaviour, and teaches you coping skills for dealing with different problems.
It combines cognitive therapy (examining the things you think) and behaviour therapy (examining the things you do).
Beating the Blues
Online CBT for depression and anxiety, available free on the NHS in some areas. You need a referral to access it.
beating the blues.co.uk
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
Information about cognitive behavioural therapy and related treatments, including details of accredited therapists.
babcp.com
British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Professional body for talking therapy and counseling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.
bacp.co.uk
British Psychological Society (BPS)
Information about psychology, including a list of chartered psychologists.
bps.org.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare.
nice.org.uk
NHS UK
Information about health problems and treatments, including details of local NHS services in England
nhs.uk
Samaritans
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk
116 123samaritans.orgFreepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
jo@samaritans.org
UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
Professional body for psychotherapists and therapeutic counselors. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.
psychotherapy.org.uk
Covid-19
You might be worried about coronavirus (Covid-19) and how it could affect your life. This may include spending a lot of time at home and keeping a safe distance from others if you go outdoors (known as ‘social distancing’).
This might feel difficult or stressful. But there are lots of things you can try to help your wellbeing.
YoungMinds
Parents' helpline available by phone and email, to offer advice to parents and carers worried about a child or young person under 25.
beating the blues.co.uk
HOPELINE UK
If you are concerned that a young person is feeling suicidal, advisers can support you to start a conversation about suicide and explore options of how best to support them
0800 068 4141 (helpline) 07860039967 (text)
papyrus-uk.org/hopelineuk
Crisis Contacts
I'm in crisis now and I need urgent help.
If you don't feel you can keep yourself safe right now, seek immediate help:
Go to any Accident & Emergency (A&E) department.
Call 999 and ask for an ambulance to take you to A&E.
Ask someone else to call 999 for you or take you to A&E.
If you need urgent support but don't want to go to A&E, you could:
- call Samaritans on freephone 116 123 – they're always open and are there to listen
- contact your GP surgery and ask for an emergency appointment
- contact NHS 111 (England) or NHS Direct 0845 46 47 (Wales)
- contact your local crisis team (CRHT), if you're under their care
- click the yellow 'I need urgent help' button at the top of this screen for more options.
If you want to help someone else, see our page on how to help someone else seek help, including how to help
Befrienders Worldwide
Worldwide directory of emotional support helplines.
befrienders.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
Provides listening services, information, and support for men at risk of suicide, including web chat.
0800 58 58 58 (UK Helpline)
0808 802 58 58 (London Helpline)
thecalmzone.net
Community Advice and Listening Line (C.A.L.L)
Provides information and support for people experiencing a mental health problem in Wales.
0800 132 737 (helpline)
81066 (text HELP plus your message)
callhelpline.org.uk
Helplines Partnerships
Membership body for helplines in the UK. Includes a searchable directory of services.
helplines.org
Mind Recovery Net
Publishes information on recovery colleges, including a searchable list of providers.
mindrecoverynet.org.uk
The Mix
Support and advice for under 25s, including webchat
0808 808 499 485258 (crisis messenger service, Text THEMIX)
themix.org.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare.
nice.org.uk
NHS 111
Non-emergency medical help and advice for people in England and some areas of Wales
111nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care/nhs-111
NHS UK
Information about health problems and treatments, including details of local NHS services in England.
nhs.uk
Nightline Association
Lists contact information for helplines and listening services in universities and colleges across the UK.
nightline.ac.uk
Papyrus HOPELINE UK
Confidential support for under-35s at risk of suicide and others who are concerned about them.
0800 068 41 4107786 209 697
9 (text)
papyrus-us.org
Relay UK
Provides a talk/type relay service for anyone who has difficulty hearing or being understood when speaking over the phone. The cost of making phone calls through this service depends on your telephone service provider.
relayuk.bt.com
Rethink Mental Illness
Provides support and information for anyone affected by mental health problems, including local support groups.
0300 5000 927
rethink.org
Samaritans
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk.
116 123samaritans.orgFreepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
jo@samaritans.org
Sane
Offers emotional support and information for anyone affected by mental health problems.
0300 304 7000
sane.org.uk
Stay Alive
App with help and resources for people who feel suicidal or are supporting someone else.
prevent-suicide.org.uk
E
Eating Disorder
An eating problem is any relationship with food that you find difficult.
Food plays an important part in our lives and most of us will spend time thinking about what we eat. Sometimes we may try to eat more healthily, have cravings, eat more than usual or lose our appetite. Changing your eating habits every now and again is normal.
But if food and eating feels like it's taking over your life then it may become a problem.
Anorexia and Bulimia Care (ABC)
Advice and support for anyone affected by eating problems
03000 11 12 13
anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice
Information about family therapy, including a directory of therapists
aft.org.uk
Beat
Under 18s helpline, webchat, and online support groups for people with eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia
0808 801 0711 (youthline)
808 801 0811(studentline)
beateatingdisorders.co.uk
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
Information about cognitive behavioural therapy and related treatments, including details of accredited therapists
babcp.com
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare
nice.org.uk
Overeaters Anonymous Great Britain
Local support groups for people with eating problems
oagb.org.uk
Papyrus HOPELINE UK
Confidential support for under-35s at risk of suicide and others who are concerned about them
0800 068 41 4107786 209697(text)
papyrus-uk.org
Samaritans
Open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk
116 123 (freephone)
jo@samaritans.orgFreepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
samaritans.org
Student Minds
Mental Health charity that supports students
studentminds.org.uk
Tommy's
Information and support for people affected by stillbirth, miscarriage, and prematured birth
tommys.org
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
ECT is a treatment that involves sending an electric current through your brain, causing a brief surge of electrical activity within your brain (also known as a seizure). The aim of the treatment is to relieve the symptoms of some mental health problems.
Electroconvulsive Therapy Accreditation Service (ECTAS)
Sets UK-wide standards for ECT Services
ectas.org
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare
nice.org.uk
POhWER
Provides advocacy services in England
0300 456 237
pohwer.net
G
General advice, Information, and Support
New paragraph
Citizens Advice
Free, confidential information and advice on your rights, including with money, housing, legal, and other problems.
03444 111 444 (Adviceline) 03444 111 445 (Text relay)
citizensadvice.org.uk
Local Authorities
Searchable directory of local authorities (also known as local councils)
gov.uk/find-your-local-council
NHS UK
Information about health problems and treatments, including details of local NHS services in England
nhs.uk
Relate
Provides help and support with relationships, including counseling, telephone counseling, and anonymous live chat
0300 003 0396
Shelter Cymru
Provides free, confidential advice on house and homelessness in Wales
0345 075 5005
sheltercymru.org.uk
Shelter England
Provides free, confidential advice on housing and homelessness is England
0808 800 4444
H
Hoarding
Hoarding is acquiring or saving lots of things regardless of their value.
If you hoard, you might:
have very strong positive feelings whenever you get more items
feel very upset or anxious at the thought of throwing or giving things away and or find it very hard to decide what to keep or get rid of.
Age UK (England)
Information and support for older people
0800 678 1602
ageuk.org.uk
British Psychological Society (BPS)
Information about psychology, including a list of chartered psychologists
bps.org.uk
Help for Hoarders
Help for people experiencing hoarding and their families, including support groups and an online forum
helpforhoarders.co.uk
Hoarding Disorders UK
Support for people affected by hoarding, including support groups
07950 364 798
hoardingdisordersuk.org
Hoarding UK
Support for people affected by hoarding, including support groups
020 3239 1600
hoardinguk.org
OCD Action
Information and support for people affected by OCD and hoarding, including online forums and local support groups.
0845 390 6232
ocdaction.org.uk
Rainbow Red
Provides and ice breaker form for people wanting to seek help with hoarding
07931 303310
rainbowred.co.uk
No Second Night Out
Help and support for people sleeping rough in some parts of England
nosecondnightout.org.uk
The Pavement
Advice and information for Homeless people including a directory of local services
thepavement.org.uk
Streetlink
Connects people who are sleeping rough with local services
0300 500 0914
streetlink.org.uk
Stonewall Housing
Specialist housing advice for anyone identifying as LGBTQ+ in England
020 7359 5767
stonewallhousing.org
L
Learning Disability
A learning disability is usually the result of a life-long condition that starts before adulthood. Learning disabilities can occur as a result of genetic or developmental factors, or damage to the brain, often at birth. They affect a person’s level of intellectual functioning, usually permanently, and may also affect their physical development.
Learning disabilities tend to be fairly fixed, and often cannot be treated or controlled with medication or other therapies. However, much can be done to help people with learning disabilities to make use of their abilities and to achieve the best possible quality of life.
People with learning disabilities are more vulnerable to mental health problems than the general population. Here we give details of organisations that provide support and further information about learning disabilities
Carers UK
Advice and support for people caring for someone else
0808 808 7777
carersuk.org
Equality Advisory & Support Service
Advice on issues relating to equality and human rights
equalityadvisoryservice.com
Beyond Words
Books Beyond Words are written for people who cannot read or have difficulty reading. These communicate simple, explicit messages through stories using coloured pictures that include mime and body language. Topics include going to the doctor, bereavement, sexual abuse, and depression. Some of the titles are available online.
booksbeyongwords.co.uk
Intellectual Disability and Health
This website was developed as a collaboration between the Division of Mental Health at St. George's University of London and the Down's Syndrome Association
Intellectialdisability.info
Norah Fry Research Centre
Part of the University of Bristol's Department of Mental Health, the Norah Fry Research Centre researches issues affecting the lives of disabled children and adults with learning difficulties and their families and through their research findings, aims to influence policy, improve services and support, empower, and inform service users, families and professionals
bristol.ac.uk/sps/research/centres/norahfryresearch
Scope
Provides practical information and emotional support for disabled people
0808 800 3333
scope.org.uk
LGBTIQ+ Mental Health
About LGBTIQ+ mental health
Some of us identify as LGBTIQ+. This means we may be lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, non-binary, queer or questioning. Or we may define our gender and sexuality in other ways. Stonewall's glossary lists many more terms.
Anyone can experience a mental health problem. But those of us who identify as LGBTIQ+ are more likely to develop problems like:
low self-esteem
depression
- anxiety, including social anxiety
- eating problems
- misusing drugs and alcohol
- self-harm
- suicidal feelings other mental health problems.
Being LGBTIQ+ does not cause these problems. The reasons why those of us with LGBTIQ+ identities are more likely to get them are very complicated. But it is most likely to do with facing things like:
- homophobia, biphobia and transphobia
- stigma and discrimination
- difficult experiences of coming out
- social isolation, exclusion and rejection.
It's important to remember that embracing your LGBTIQ+ identity can also have a positive impact on your wellbeing. It might mean you have:
- increased confidence
- improved relationships with your friends and family a sense of community and belonging
- the freedom of self-expression and self-acceptance
- increased resilience.
Albert Kennedy Trust
Supports LGBTIQ+ people aged 16-25 who are homeless or living in a hostile environment
akt.org.uk
Being Gay is OK
Provides advice and information for LGBTIQ+ people under 25
bgiok.org.uk
Bi Cymru/Wales
Network for people in Wales who are bisexual or think they might be bisexual
bicymru.org.uk
British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Information on befriending, including an online directory of UK befriending services
befriending.co.uk
Broken Rainbow
Runs a national domestic violence helpline to provide confidential support to all members of the LGBT communities, their family, friends, and agencies supporting them.
0300 999 5428
brokenrainbow.org.uk
Brook
Provides wellbeing and sexual health information and support for young people
befriending.co.uk
Befriending Networks
Information on befriending, including an online directory of UK befriending services
befriending.co.uk
Befriending Networks
Information on befriending, including an online directory of UK befriending services
befriending.co.uk
Loneliness
About loneliness We all feel lonely from time to time. Feelings of loneliness are personal, so everyone's experience of loneliness will be different.
One common description of loneliness is the feeling we get when our need for rewarding social contact and relationships is not met. But loneliness is not always the same as being alone.
You may choose to be alone and live happily without much contact with other people, while others may find this a lonely experience.
Or you may have lots of social contact, or be in a relationship or part of a family, and still feel lonely – especially if you don't feel understood or cared for by the people around you (see our information on the causes of loneliness). What causes loneliness?
Loneliness has many different causes, which vary from person to person. We don't always understand what it is about an experience that makes us feel lonely.
For some people, certain life events may mean they feel lonely, such as:
experiencing a bereavement going through a relationship break-up
retiring and losing the social contact you had at work
changing jobs and feeling isolated from your co-workers
starting at university moving to a new area or country without family, friends or community networks. Other people find they feel lonely at certain times of the year, such as around Christmas.
Some research suggests that people who live in certain circumstances, or belong to particular groups, are more vulnerable to loneliness. For example, if you:
have no friends or family are estranged from your family are a single parent or care for someone else – you may find it hard to maintain a social life belong to minority groups and live in an area without others from a similar background
- are excluded from social activities due to mobility problems or a shortage of money experience discrimination and stigma because of a disability or long-term health problem, including mental health problems
- experience discrimination and stigma because of your gender, race, or sexual orientation
- have experience sexual or physical abuse - you may find it harder to form close relationships with other people
Age Cymru (Wales)
Information and support for older people
08000 223 444
ageuk.org.uk/cymru
Age UK (England)
Information and support for older people
0800 678 1602
ageuk.uk
Befriending Networks
Information on befriending, including an online directory of UK befriending services
befriending.co.uk
British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Professional body for talking therapy and counseling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.
bacp.co.uk
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
Provides listening services, information, and support for men at risk of suicide, including a web chat
0800 58 58 58 (UK helpline)
0808 802 58 58 (London Helpline)
thecalmzone.net
Carers UK
Advice and support for people caring for someone else
0808 808 7777
careresuk.org
Consortium
Directory of services and groups for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
consortium.lgbt/member-directory
Cruse Bereavement Care
Information and support after a bereavement
0808 808 1677
cruse.org.uk
Do-it
Lists UK Volunteering opportunities
do-it.org
Empty Closets
Online community for anyone aged over 13 who identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, or is curious or unsure
emptyclosets.com
Gingerbread
Advice and practical support for single parents families
0808 802 0925
Meetup.com
Website that allows you to find face-to-face groups of people who share your interests or aspirations
meetup.com
National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO)
Information about volunteering, including details of local centres
ncvo.org.uk
Reengage
Social activities for people over 75 who have little or no social support
reengage.ork.uk
Relate
Provides help and support with relationships, including counseling, telephone counseling, and anonymous live chat
0300 003 0396
Samaritans
Open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk. You can visit some branches in person. They also have a Welsh Language Line on 0300 123 3011 (7pm-11pm every day)
116 123 (freephone)
jo@samaritans.orgFreepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
samaritans.org
Scope
Provides practical information and emotional support for disabled people
0808 800 3333
scope.org.uk
The Silver Line
Provides support, information, friendship, and advice for older people (over 55) who may feel lonely or isolated
0800 4 70 80 90
thesilverline.org.uk
Social Farms & Gardens
Information on care farming and community growing projects, including a network of local farms
farmgarden.org.uk
Student Minds
Mental health charity that supports students
studentminds.org.uk
Volunteering Wales
Information about volunteering opportunities in Wales
volunteering-wales.net
Web of Loneliness
Online community and website which provides information and tips on loneliness. Also allows users to share artwork and poetry.
webofloneliness.com
M
Medication
Psychiatric medication includes all drugs which can be prescribed to treat different types of mental health problems, or to reduce the symptoms. Why might I take medication?
Generally, psychiatric drugs can't cure a mental health problem. But in some cases, they can help reduce the symptoms or help you cope with them better. Whether you are offered medication or not depends on:
- your diagnosis
- your symptoms
- how severely the condition affects you.
- There are many other types of treatment options as well as medication. Many people use a combination of medication and other treatments, such as a talking treatment, to manage their condition. What if I want to stop taking my medication?
Before coming off any drug, it’s important to make sure you have all the information and support you need to do it safely. If you decide you want to stop taking your medication, you should:
- avoid stopping suddenly discuss it with someone you trust (ideally this will be your doctor)
- if possible, seek help from a support group (Mind's Infoline can give you information about local services in your area).
- The longer you have been taking a drug, the more likely it is that you will experience withdrawal effects and find it harder to stop. You may need to reduce the dose very gradually in order to minimise these effects.
Civil Legal Advice (CLA)
Can tell you if you're eligible for legal aid, and give you free and confidential legal advice if so
gov.uk/civil-legal-advice
Law Society
Profession association for solicitors in England and Wales. Includes a searchable directory of solicitors
lawsociety.org.uk
Office of the Public Guardian
Protect people in England and Wales who may not have the mental capacity to make certain decisions for themselves, such as about their health and finance
gov.uk/goverment/organisations/office-of-the-public-guardian
Revolving Doors Agency
Supports people with mental health problems who have had contact with the criminal justice system
020 7407 0747
O
Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has two main parts: obsessions and compulsions.
Obsessions are unwelcome thoughts, images, urges, worries or doubts that repeatedly appear in your mind. They can make you feel very anxious (although some people describe it as 'mental discomfort' rather than anxiety). You can read more about obsessions here. Compulsions are repetitive activities that you do to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsession. It could be something like repeatedly checking a door is locked, repeating a specific phrase in your head or checking how your body feels. You can read more about compulsions here.
Carers UK
Advice and support for people caring for someone else
0808 808 7777
carersuk.org
Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT)
Information about local NHS therapy and counseling services, which you can often self-refer to (England only)
nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-psychological-therapies-service
OCD Action
Information and support for people affected by OCD and hoarding, including online forums and local support groups
0845 390 6232
ocdaction.org.uk
OCD UK
Charity run by and for people with OCD
03332 127890
ocduk.org
Other Organisations
British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Professional body for talking therapy and counseling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.
bacp.co.uk
Community Advice and Listening Line (CALL)
Provides information and support for people experiencing a mental health problem in Wales
0800 132 737 (helpline)
81066 (text HELP plus your message)
callhelpline.org.uk
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
Provides listening services, information, and support for men at risk of suicide, including a web chat
0800 58 58 58 (UK helpline)
0808 802 58 58 (London helpline)
thecalmzone.net
Healthtalk.org
Information about people's experiences of mental health problems and treatments, including audio and videos
healthtalk.org
Hub of Hope
A National database of mental health charities, and organisations from across Britain who offer mental health advice and support
hubofhope.co.uk
NHS 111 (England)
Non-emergency medical help and advice for people in England
111111.nhs.uk
NHS 111 Wales
Non-emergency medical help and advice for people living in Wales.
111 (Hywel Dda, Powys, Aneurin Bevan and Swansea Bay Health Boards (including Brigend)
0845 46 47 (all other areas of Wales)
111.wales.nhs.uk
Patient
Offers information about healthcare. Has a directory of health professionals, including information about private healthcare and professional qualifications
patient.info
P
Parenting with Mental Health Contacts
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Anna Freud
Provides information for parents on supporting your child and has a directory of mental health services that you can search by your local area
annafreud.org
Barnardo's
Supports children and young people, and their parents and carers, including with mental health problems
barnardos.org.uk
Carers Trust
Information and support for people caring for someone else
carers.org
Childline
Support for children and young people in the UK, including a free 24-hour helpline
0800 1111
childline.org
Family Action
Supports families of any kind, including with mental health problems
0808 802 6666
Family Lives
Information and support for parents and families
0808 800 2222
familylives.org
Family Rights Group
Supports families whose children are in need, at risk or are in the care system
0808 801 0366
frg.org.uk
Gingerbread
Advice and practical support for single parent families
0808 802 0925
gingerbread.org.uk
Grandparents Plus
Information for kinship carers
grandparentsplus.org.uk
Home-start
Support for families with young children, including details of local services
home-start.org.uk
Kooth
Counselors available until 10pm every day. Free, safe, and anonymous online counseling for young people. Check whether this is offered in your area
kooth.com
Mumsnet
Online network aimed at parents and parents-to-be, including online forums and details of local groups
mumsnet.com
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC)
Support for children and anyone worried about a child
0800 800 50000800 1111 (18 or under)
nspcc.org.uk
Paranoia
Paranoia is thinking and feeling like you are being threatened in some way, even if there is no evidence, or very little evidence, that you are. Paranoid thoughts can also be described as delusions. There are lots of different kinds of threat you might be scared and worried about.
Paranoid thoughts could also be exaggerated suspicions. For example, someone made a nasty comment about you once, and you believe that they are directing a hate campaign against you
British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Professional body for talking therapy and counseling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists
bacp.co.uk
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies
Information about cognitive behavioural therapy and related treatments, including details of accredited therapists
babcp.com
Carers UK
Advice and support for people caring for someone else
0808 808 7777
carersuk.org
Mood Diaries
Some examples of mood diaries - many more are available. Mind doesn't endorse any particular one.
medhelp.org/land/mood-trackermoodscope.commoodchart.org
moodpanda.com
The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
A charity supporting adult survivors of any form of childhood abuse.
0808 801 0331
napac.org.uk
National Paranoia Network
Information and Support for people who experience paranoid thoughts
nationalparanoianetwork.org
Rethink Mental Illness
Provides support snd information for anyone affected by mental health problems, including local support groups
0300 5000 927
rethink.org
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event.
Anxiety UK
Advice and support for people living with anxiety
03444 775 774 (helpline)
07537 416 905 (text)
anxietyuk.org.uk
ASSIST Trauma Care
Information and specialist help for people who've experienced trauma or are supporting someone who has.
assisttraumacare.org.uk
Birth Trauma Association
Support for anyone affected by birth trauma, including partners.
birthtraumaassociation.org.uk
Combat Stress
Treatment and support for armed forces veterans who have mental health problems.
0800 1381 619
combatstress.org.uk
Disaster Action
Information and support for people affected by major disasters in the UK and overseas.
psychotherapy.org.uk
EMDR UK & Ireland
Professional association of EMDR clinicians and researchers in the UK and Ireland. Provides extensive information about EMDR
emdrassociation.org.uk
Freedom from Torture
Supports survivors of torture.
freedomfromturture.org
Help for Adult Victims of Child Abuse (HAVOCA)
Information and support for adults affected by childhood abuse, including and online support forum.
havoca.org
Lifecentre
Support for survivors of sexual abuse and anyone supporting them, including a helpline, text support, and email counseling.
lifecentre.uk.com
Moodjuice
Online self-help guides on topics including depression, anxiety, and stress.
moodjuice.scot.nhs.uk
The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC)
A charity supporting adult survivors of any form of childhood abuse. Provides a support line and local support services.
0808 801 0331
napac.org.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines of best practice in healthcare.
nice.org.uk
NHS UK
Information about health problems and treatments, including details of local NHS services in England.
nhs.uk
PTSD Resolution
Helps veterans, reservists, and their families with trauma and distress.
0300 302 0551
ptsdresolution.org
RoadPeace
Information and support for people bereaved or seriously injured due to road crashes.
08454 500 355
roadpeace.org
The Survivors Trust
Lists local specialist services for survivors of sexual survivors, including advocated and Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs)
08088 010 818
thesurvivorstrust.org
Victim Support
Provides emotional and practical support for people affected by crime and traumatic events.
0808 168 9111
victimsupport.org.uk
Professional Organisations
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General Medical Council (GMC)
Helps to protect patients and support doctors, and maintains a register of licensed doctors
gmc-uk.org
Information Standard
Certification programme for all organisations who produce healthcare information for the public
england.nhs.uk
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Produces guidelines of best practice in healthcare
nice.org.uk
Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
Regulates nurses and midwives in the UK
nmc.org.uk
