A comprehensive guide to mental health support resources available to you, from crisis helplines to online communities, professional services, and specialised assistance.
Finding the right support is crucial for mental health recovery. This guide provides detailed information about various resources available to help you or someone you care about navigate mental health challenges.
Whether you're in crisis, looking for ongoing support, or seeking specialised resources, this comprehensive guide will help you find the assistance you need.
Crisis helplines provide immediate support when you're experiencing a mental health emergency or need to talk to someone right away.
24/7 support for anyone in distress or despair
Call: 116 123 (free)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
24/7 text-based crisis support
Text: SHOUT to 85258 (free)
24/7 urgent mental health support
Call: 111 (select option 2)
24/7 helpline for veterans' mental health
Call: 0800 138 1619 (free)
Support for young people under 35 experiencing suicidal thoughts
Call: 0800 068 4141
Text: 07860 039967
Online communities provide a space to connect with others who understand what you're going through, share experiences, and receive peer support.
Safe, supportive online community run by Mind where you can be yourself and connect with others.
mind.org.uk/side-by-side24/7 online mental health community with professional support and peer-to-peer connection.
www.togetherall.comUK-based online community for mental health support and discussion.
www.mentalhealthforum.netOnline community and support for young people under 25 facing mental health challenges.
www.themix.org.ukSupportive online community where you can share experiences and connect with others.
www.mind.org.uk/side-by-sideMental health support community specifically for students in further and higher education.
www.studentspace.org.ukFace-to-face support groups provide community connection and structured support led by professionals or peers who understand your experiences.
Local Mind associations offer peer support groups, activities, and services across England and Wales.
Find your local MindPeer support groups and services for people affected by mental illness across the UK.
Find Rethink services and groupsSupport groups and services specifically for people living with anxiety disorders.
Find Anxiety UK support groupsPeer support groups for people affected by bipolar disorder, both in-person and online.
Find Bipolar UK support groupsMutual support groups for people affected by depression, offering both online and in-person meetings.
Find Depression UK groupsThese organisations provide resources, advocacy, education, and direct services for mental health support.
Leading mental health charity providing advice, support, and campaigning for better services
www.mind.org.ukResearch, policy, and public education on mental health
www.mentalhealth.org.ukMany communities have local mental health centers, NHS trusts, and non-profit organisations that provide direct services.
Find Local ResourcesDigital tools can provide on-demand support, skill-building exercises, and tracking for mental health management.
Guided meditation and mindfulness exercises
Sleep stories, meditation, and relaxation
Evidence-based strategies for anxiety and depression
AI chatbot using CBT techniques
Mood and activity tracking journal
Tools for stress, anxiety, and depression
Safety planning and crisis support connections
Digital panic button to alert trusted contacts
Books, workbooks, and educational materials can provide deeper understanding and self-guided healing approaches.
By Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.
Explores the effects of trauma on the body and mind, and various approaches to healing.
By David D. Burns, M.D.
A classic CBT-based approach to managing depression and anxiety.
By Pete Walker
A guide for understanding and healing from childhood trauma.
By Edmund J. Bourne, Ph.D.
Practical exercises and strategies for managing anxiety disorders.
Many organisations offer free or low-cost educational webinars and courses on mental health topics:
Interviews about mental health challenges
Mental health topics for Black women
Comedians discussing depression
Brené Brown's podcast on emotions, vulnerability, and human connection
Financial barriers shouldn't prevent access to mental health care. These resources can help make treatment more affordable.
NHS mental health services are free at the point of use for UK residents:
If mental health affects your ability to work or daily living, you may be eligible for:
If NHS waiting times are long, these options may provide more affordable private therapy:
Some charities provide grants for therapy and mental health support:
If you need help applying for benefits or appealing a decision:
Resources tailored to specific populations and needs to ensure everyone can access appropriate support.
Support and information for LGBTQ+ community
Call: 0300 330 0630
switchboard.lgbtConnecting Black individuals and families with mental health professionals
www.blackmindsmatteruk.comUK's leading charity for veterans' mental health
Helpline: 0800 138 1619
combatstress.org.ukFirst point of contact for veterans seeking support
Call: 0808 802 1212
www.veteransgateway.org.ukPre and postnatal depression support
Helpline: 0808 196 4382
www.pandasfoundation.org.ukMental health support is not one-size-fits-all. It often takes time to find the right combination of resources that work for your unique situation.
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're looking for professional treatment, peer support, self-help tools, or educational resources, taking that first step is an important part of your mental health journey.
If you're in crisis or need immediate support, don't hesitate to reach out to one of the crisis helplines listed above.