Finding appropriate support

Seeking support can be difficult, particularly when a person has spent a long time managing distress privately or is unsure whether their difficulties are serious enough to mention. There is no need to have a diagnosis or a complete explanation before asking for help. Support begins with describing what is happening and what has become difficult.

1. When might support help?

Consider speaking to someone when symptoms persist, intensify, disrupt sleep or relationships, affect work or study, or make everyday tasks hard to manage. Concern from people close to you may also be worth listening to. You do not need to wait until a crisis, and asking for support does not commit you to a particular treatment.

2. Where to begin

In the UK, a GP can discuss symptoms, physical health, medication and possible referrals. In England, NHS Talking Therapies services accept self-referrals for certain anxiety and depression difficulties in many areas. Other conditions may require specialist services, such as an eating-disorder team, an early intervention in psychosis service or an addiction service. Eligibility and routes vary by location.

3. Choosing a therapist or service

Ask about training, experience with the difficulty you want to address, the therapeutic approach, fees, confidentiality, supervision and how progress is reviewed. A good fit includes feeling able to ask questions and disagree. If a service cannot meet your needs, ask about alternatives or onward referral. Cost, language, disability access and cultural understanding can be legitimate parts of the decision.

4. If asking for help feels difficult

You can write down symptoms, examples and questions before an appointment, or ask someone trusted to accompany you. It is acceptable to say that you do not know how to explain the problem. If your first attempt does not lead to suitable support, you can ask for clarification, seek another opinion or contact a relevant support organisation.

5. UK support directory

Mind provides information about mental health and routes to support. Rethink Mental Illness offers information for people affected by severe mental illness. Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 at any time for emotional support. In England, NHS 111 can advise on urgent mental health needs; call 999 or attend A&E if there is immediate danger. Check each organisation's website for current services and access options.

Urgent and crisis support

In England, contact NHS 111 for urgent mental health support. Samaritans can be reached on 116 123 for emotional support. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.