*
4581°
Posted 1 December 2023
FREE support services and organisations on Mental Health
Shared by
Dan_82 Deal editor
Joined in 2006
24,832
24,321
About this deal
Update 2
Updated! Thanks to everyone so far!
Hi folks, i posted something similar a good while back, and thought it would be worthwhile posting again. Mental health issues may become more difficult at this time of year, with the pressures of Christmas and Cost of living. I've been there, it's not a nice place but there is help out there and so many people want to help, including friends/family, even if at the time you think they may think lesser of you, it's not the case!
Mental Health, for many, is always a difficult subject to talk about and many struggle to come to terms with and/or open up about their struggles including day to day issues. it can be a dark place at times, but there is help out there!
Ideally going to your GP would be a first point of call, or if in a emergency call 999.
I thought i'd list a few helpful services, who are just on the other end of the phone, or if you don't want to speak direct, there's some services which you can 'speak' via text, if you feel it's easier.
Friends are always a good point of call also < 3
ANDYSMANCLUB: ANDYSMANCLUB are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation. #ITSOKAYTOTALK
Blue Cross Pet bereavement and pet loss: Lives are transformed by the love and companionship pets bring. So, saying goodbye to one – whether due to death or separation – is always sad, difficult and often traumatic. It affects people in many ways.
But, remember, you are not alone. If you are grieving for a pet, or facing loss, our free and confidential Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) is here for you by phone, email or webchat.
Breathing Space: (Scotland): Sometimes our thoughts and feelings can overwhelm us. It helps to get some Breathing Space. Pick up the phone - we're here to listen. Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2am
Weekend: Friday 6pm-Monday 6am - Need help now? Call free on 0800 83 85 87
CALM: The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against suicide. You can talk to CALM about anything. Call the CALM helpline on 0800 58 58 58 or use their webchat here.
The helpline and webchat are both open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year.
Childline: You can talk to us about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Call us on 0800 1111 or chat to us online. (for anyone up to the age of 19)
When you call us on 0800 1111 you’ll get through to a counsellor, they’re there to listen and support you with anything you’d like to talk about. Or you can have a 1-2-1 counsellor chat online.
You can also send us an email from your locker. We’ll try to answer this within a day, but sometimes it can take a little longer. Childline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So you can talk to us any time. But we might not be able to talk for as long when it’s after midnight.
Giveusashout: Shout 85258 is a free, confidential, anonymous text support service. You can text us from wherever you are in the UK. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, our trained Shout Volunteers are here for you, day or night. If your life is at imminent risk, please call 999 for immediate help.
Headspace: Headspace is a science-backed app in mindfulness and meditation, providing unique tools and resources to help reduce stress, build resilience, and aid better sleep.. Although their is a limited, free version for all, and sometimes we see code for xx free months,
They have now extended their free offer and are offering free access to all NHS staff with an NHS email address until 31 March 2024.
Hearing Voices: To anyone who experiences voices, visions or other unusual perceptions, or who knows someone else who does, the Hearing Voices Network is run by people who share this experience
HOPELINE247: For children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide and/or For anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide
if you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be you can contact HOPELINE247 for confidential support and practical advice.
Call: 0800 068 4141
Text: 07860039967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Hub Of Hope: Find Mental Health Support in, and around, your area. The Hub of Hope website has a postcode search that you can use to find local services
Also on Google Play and iOS (Apple)
ICE Benevolent Fund: We’re here to help all civil engineers who are, or have been, members of ICE. We’re also here for their families. We have a range of services to support ICE members and their families with the pressures of everyday life. We also help members reach their potential in their personal development.
Free 24 hour helplineOnline wellbeing resourcesWorkshops, webinars and masterclasses
Incourage: Men work, gather, play and live in a variety of places and spaces. We want to ensure that these spaces are safe, supportive and serve the wellbeing of each man.
Too many communities shy away from participating in the lives of the men that are suffering. We use our experience of working with a range of men's groups, community settings and local projects to pioneer new ways of effective support for men in all communities.
Mind: Mind offer an information line to answer questions about: types of mental health problem, where to get help
drug and alternative treatments, advocacy. Infoline: 0300 123 3393
NOMV (Not One More Vet): Not One More Vet (NOMV) will transform the status of mental wellness within the profession so veterinary professionals can survive & thrive.
Petals: Petals counselling sessions provide a secure space for women to talk about the fear and broken expectations that usually come following the early miscarriage of pregnancy. Whilst most women know that early miscarriage is possible, when it happens to them it often brings a mixture of emotions that leaves them feeling vulnerable, frightened about the future, and let down.
Recovery College: Providing a range of online educational courses and resources to people who might be struggling with mental health issues, families, friends, mental health workers and anyone else who might be interested
The Samaritans: Call us any time, day or night - Whatever you're going through, you can call us any time, from any phone for FREE. Call 116 123
Young Minds: We’re the UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people's mental health.
We want to see a world where no young person feels alone with their mental health, and all young people get the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what.
I'm a young person
I'm a Parent
SOBS (Survivors of Bereavment By Suicide): We are the only UK-based organisation offering peer-led support to adults impacted by suicide loss. We help individuals support each other, at the time of their loss and in the months and years that follow. We aim to provide safe, confidential environments where people can share their experiences and feelings, giving and gaining support from each other.
These great organisations offer services either UK-wide or in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. (Make sure you double check costs involved, calling/texting, if any at all.)
Including:
Anxiety UK is a user-led organisation that supports anyone with anxiety, phobias, panic attacks or other anxiety-related disorders. 03444 775 774 or text 07537 416 905
Ditch The Label helps young people navigate issues related to bullying, such as improving mental health, body image, coming out, and building confidence and self-esteem.
Maytree is a registered charity supporting people in suicidal crisis in a non-medical setting. They offer a free 4-night/5-day stay, and the opportunity to be befriended and heard in complete confidence, without judgement and with compassion and warmth. 020 7263 7070
NHS: Find out how to access NHS mental health services and where to get urgent help.
Another helpful source is Citizens Advice which can give advice on Debt, Benefits, Housing, Family & more
Finally, many local councils / authorities have various free support hubs/contacts. If you're unsure of your local, you can find them here - England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales
Find a free, warm welcome space in your area (More being added all the time)
Mental Health, for many, is always a difficult subject to talk about and many struggle to come to terms with and/or open up about their struggles including day to day issues. it can be a dark place at times, but there is help out there!
Ideally going to your GP would be a first point of call, or if in a emergency call 999.
I thought i'd list a few helpful services, who are just on the other end of the phone, or if you don't want to speak direct, there's some services which you can 'speak' via text, if you feel it's easier.
Friends are always a good point of call also < 3
ANDYSMANCLUB: ANDYSMANCLUB are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation. #ITSOKAYTOTALK
Blue Cross Pet bereavement and pet loss: Lives are transformed by the love and companionship pets bring. So, saying goodbye to one – whether due to death or separation – is always sad, difficult and often traumatic. It affects people in many ways.
But, remember, you are not alone. If you are grieving for a pet, or facing loss, our free and confidential Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) is here for you by phone, email or webchat.
Breathing Space: (Scotland): Sometimes our thoughts and feelings can overwhelm us. It helps to get some Breathing Space. Pick up the phone - we're here to listen. Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2am
Weekend: Friday 6pm-Monday 6am - Need help now? Call free on 0800 83 85 87
CALM: The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against suicide. You can talk to CALM about anything. Call the CALM helpline on 0800 58 58 58 or use their webchat here.
The helpline and webchat are both open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year.
Childline: You can talk to us about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Call us on 0800 1111 or chat to us online. (for anyone up to the age of 19)
When you call us on 0800 1111 you’ll get through to a counsellor, they’re there to listen and support you with anything you’d like to talk about. Or you can have a 1-2-1 counsellor chat online.
You can also send us an email from your locker. We’ll try to answer this within a day, but sometimes it can take a little longer. Childline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So you can talk to us any time. But we might not be able to talk for as long when it’s after midnight.
Giveusashout: Shout 85258 is a free, confidential, anonymous text support service. You can text us from wherever you are in the UK. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, our trained Shout Volunteers are here for you, day or night. If your life is at imminent risk, please call 999 for immediate help.
Headspace: Headspace is a science-backed app in mindfulness and meditation, providing unique tools and resources to help reduce stress, build resilience, and aid better sleep.. Although their is a limited, free version for all, and sometimes we see code for xx free months,
They have now extended their free offer and are offering free access to all NHS staff with an NHS email address until 31 March 2024.
Hearing Voices: To anyone who experiences voices, visions or other unusual perceptions, or who knows someone else who does, the Hearing Voices Network is run by people who share this experience
HOPELINE247: For children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide and/or For anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide
if you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be you can contact HOPELINE247 for confidential support and practical advice.
Call: 0800 068 4141
Text: 07860039967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Hub Of Hope: Find Mental Health Support in, and around, your area. The Hub of Hope website has a postcode search that you can use to find local services
Also on Google Play and iOS (Apple)
ICE Benevolent Fund: We’re here to help all civil engineers who are, or have been, members of ICE. We’re also here for their families. We have a range of services to support ICE members and their families with the pressures of everyday life. We also help members reach their potential in their personal development.
Free 24 hour helplineOnline wellbeing resourcesWorkshops, webinars and masterclasses
Incourage: Men work, gather, play and live in a variety of places and spaces. We want to ensure that these spaces are safe, supportive and serve the wellbeing of each man.
Too many communities shy away from participating in the lives of the men that are suffering. We use our experience of working with a range of men's groups, community settings and local projects to pioneer new ways of effective support for men in all communities.
Mind: Mind offer an information line to answer questions about: types of mental health problem, where to get help
drug and alternative treatments, advocacy. Infoline: 0300 123 3393
NOMV (Not One More Vet): Not One More Vet (NOMV) will transform the status of mental wellness within the profession so veterinary professionals can survive & thrive.
Petals: Petals counselling sessions provide a secure space for women to talk about the fear and broken expectations that usually come following the early miscarriage of pregnancy. Whilst most women know that early miscarriage is possible, when it happens to them it often brings a mixture of emotions that leaves them feeling vulnerable, frightened about the future, and let down.
Recovery College: Providing a range of online educational courses and resources to people who might be struggling with mental health issues, families, friends, mental health workers and anyone else who might be interested
The Samaritans: Call us any time, day or night - Whatever you're going through, you can call us any time, from any phone for FREE. Call 116 123
Young Minds: We’re the UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people's mental health.
We want to see a world where no young person feels alone with their mental health, and all young people get the mental health support they need, when they need it, no matter what.
I'm a young person
I'm a Parent
SOBS (Survivors of Bereavment By Suicide): We are the only UK-based organisation offering peer-led support to adults impacted by suicide loss. We help individuals support each other, at the time of their loss and in the months and years that follow. We aim to provide safe, confidential environments where people can share their experiences and feelings, giving and gaining support from each other.
These great organisations offer services either UK-wide or in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. (Make sure you double check costs involved, calling/texting, if any at all.)
Including:
Anxiety UK is a user-led organisation that supports anyone with anxiety, phobias, panic attacks or other anxiety-related disorders. 03444 775 774 or text 07537 416 905
Ditch The Label helps young people navigate issues related to bullying, such as improving mental health, body image, coming out, and building confidence and self-esteem.
Maytree is a registered charity supporting people in suicidal crisis in a non-medical setting. They offer a free 4-night/5-day stay, and the opportunity to be befriended and heard in complete confidence, without judgement and with compassion and warmth. 020 7263 7070
NHS: Find out how to access NHS mental health services and where to get urgent help.
Another helpful source is Citizens Advice which can give advice on Debt, Benefits, Housing, Family & more
Finally, many local councils / authorities have various free support hubs/contacts. If you're unsure of your local, you can find them here - England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales
Find a free, warm welcome space in your area (More being added all the time)
More details at Community Updates
Update 1
Updated, thanks to all so far!
Edited by Dan_82, 5 December 2023
223 Comments
sorted byI think for a lot of people Christmas shopping can be overwhelming and it can be a flashpoint so it's very relevant to the community.
Even for those who don't feel they're struggling it's useful to make them aware of resources available and to check-in with neighbours and colleagues. It'll help those who need support find it.
I've had anxiety since I was about 11 years old. I used to avoid assembly in school, used to feel dizzy and the teachers took me out of assembly once to lie down, so that was the first trigger to my brain better worry about this dizziness thing. Eventually my parents paid for me to go to get ecg scans etc. It was all normal. Then I got to 18 years old lived in London from 1989 to 1992, lived with an absolute a-hole of a friend, ended up in a fight and moved out. Then one day I didn't have a coat so I borrowed my landlord's coat it stank of smoke, sitting on the tube my brain said everyone can smell you, you smell really bad. I started to sweat massively, went really dizzy (not good see earlier) got off the tube at the next stop and thought wtf is going on here. Then it all calmed down I got back on the tube, brain said nope again and then I found it really difficult to go anywhere near people because I thought I smelt bad and would sweat. Then I was scared of sweating near people.
I then had to quit my job in 1992 then somewhere around that time I became Agoraphobic so I couldn't walk anywhere without feeling really dizzy. Despite all manner of treatments it was never resolved so along came 2003 where I decided to go to Uni, got blind drunk one evening as alcohol was becoming a part of coping. Decided to drive my car and whilst drunk decided that I should just quit life and drive off a bridge, but I hit a van, van driver punched me in the face obviously who wouldn't. Then the police come and arrest me, nearly got put in jail, probably should have done. Along comes 2008 and my g/f had to change shift at her job so she'd be walking home at 3am in the morning. Brain said have to worry about this of course which is natural but it woke me up to worry about it. Found out I then got Insomnia had to take time off work, eventually screwed too many things up at work, argued with the boss and rage quit. Tried to work for myself for a year, then got a job in a computer shop, all ok until 2015 when my brain said oh yeah I remember you're an Insomniac how about you don't sleep for a week this time and then worry about it. Why not get suicidal as well so research that on the Internet my brain says, with the very real thought of doing it which I can tell you is a bad place to be when your brain tricks you that is the only fix. Then I was pretty much forced to take medication which I am now on.
Then I was hanging around with mentally unwell people and they were doing all manner of drugs, brain said let's do all the drugs they have. So one evening drank a couple of beers (alcohol), then had a couple of Pepsi's (Caffiene) then had some Weed (Cannabis and Nicotine from tobacco) and smoke some crack cocaine and some heroin and see if you don't die tonight. Did this a couple more times until it all got too much. So now I don't do any drugs my brain still has the thought to do them but I'm not near any people that could tempt me back. Just one spin on the anxiety wheel and I could be back to it all again but I think perhaps less likely these days.
The real concern for me is that I don't trust myself there's always doubt in my mind because of my experience that I have the capability as evidenced above to be like that next time. Who gets hurt next time is it just me or do I take some people with me? That thought is enough to figuratively sober me up.
Take care anxiety is a nightmare, that's my anxiety audit trail, yours probably won't get that far and if it shows signs of doing so, we're more open in modern society to helping people. I'm still Agoraphobic but I have been up some mountains in Wales recently, so I want to get a drone to trick my brain that I like it there and want to do some photography. I just have to cling on to the car as the world spins and I regain my balance, the view is cracking though, really good and that beautiful view for miles and miles inflicts a potent realisation in my psyche that I'm still alive and for that I am grateful.
It's amazing how much of an improvement a good diet can make too. It was something I never noticed until I started eating healthy, but junk food can make you feel terrible mentally. No surprise considering what's actually in it though!
Even in times when it feels like there is nowhere left to turn, there’s always another option, and the vast majority of those options listed above are excellent places to start.
If I could highlight just one option, Hub of Hope is like the encyclopaedia of options!
Take care and look after yourself and those around you - and if you see someone struggling, the best thing you can do is.. be kind. (edited)
You don't need to be on Universal credit or other benefits to claim PIP and if you qualify, it can be life changing.
I have suffered for years and can now afford to access private phsycotherapy for the first time.
It's not for the short term and the application process can be frustrating, but going forward it can help you access the kind of help, that for me, has been very helpful.
Got a referral for CBT, but have been waiting months to actually see somebody.
Great post -- heated
nhs.uk/eve…es/
Heres a link for nhs online cbt (unfortunately services for face to face therapy are rammed so you might be waiting several months)
And if you need urgent help you can always call things like samaritans or your local crisis team or 999 in an emergency. Stay safe 🙏
I unfortunately have to battle with my mental health, but am very lucky to be part of trials in the UK that give me access to alternative treatments which i find helps me cope better than other medicine or treatments.
I commend anyone and everyone who is battling with any health condition, mental or physical, it's hard work, so please take 5 minutes and just and give yourself some credit for what you have done to get this far ! (edited)
I volunteered for Mind as an advocate for many years and saw the inexcusable decline of the NHS mental health system first hand. It's an absolute disgrace how it's been run into the ground over the last 15+ years.
For anyone suffering long-term, I would highly recommend seeking out a reputable local charity that provides low-cost face-to-face counselling, ideally one that specialises in your condition e.g. depression/anxiety, hearing voices, addiction, bereavement and so on.
Not only did I see my clients have far more success with this type of service than GPs or psychiatrists shoving drugs down their throat, I experienced it myself during a particularly difficult period of my life. I was lucky to get an amazing therapist in her final year of training (hence the possibility of low-cost treatment) but, if you don't "click" with your assigned counsellor, most charities are fairly flexible and will let you try working with two or three different therapists until you find the right one for you.
Best wishes to anyone struggling with mental health issues of any kind. As an ex-colleague put it, physical illness can cause suffering but mental illness IS suffering. (edited)
Do alot of people know 111 now diverts to mental health teams if it’s out of Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and mental health related?
Most talking therapies are huge waiting lists but Samaritans I get really good feedback from patients about them, non judgmental, just someone to talk to in a difficult time, loneliness can also be helped with these guys, one of our nations big problems currently.
I think Headspace is a good app for me to plug for anxiety, highly recommend.
I also note in an emergency call 999, or, attend A&E, trust me, worked in A&E as on-call mental health nurse (all have them) we do not mind if its a crisis or you are desperate, come to a&e, we are happy to see you in an emergency. (edited)
I have and it shook my world.
Take care of yourself people 🙏
uksobs.org/?do…125 (edited)
You might like to add papyrus-uk.org/
"PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide is the UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people. We believe that no young person should have to struggle alone with thoughts of suicide."
Their Hopeline is open to children and young people, or anyone concerned that a child or young person may be having thoughts about suicide, 24/7 on 0800 068 41 41 or text 07860 039967
ANDYSMANCLUB are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation. #ITSOKAYTOTALK
Click link below for more information and to find your nearest group 👌🏻
Andysmanclub
Pet bereavement and pet loss
0800 096 6606 if you'd like to talk. We are available between 8.30am and 8.30pm every day
The poster above also posted a useful link.
Christmas can be a particularly hard time for the elderly in our society. If you do feel able to check in on the Older Person living around the corner, who lives alone, during the festive period I'm sure you'll bring a smile to their face. A lot will just have home carers visiting, who'll do their best but a lot will be lonely. So please can you kindly add Age UK to the list above, the 'Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602
Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year'
who they could contact too. They do a befriending phone service which whilst won't solve everything could brighten someone's day.
Any concerns about anyone who is vulnerable, of any age, please consider ringing the local council/authority social services dept and report either a Safeguarding Adult Concern in England & Wales or similar in the rest of the UK. The list of local councils above will helpfully direct you. You can do this anonymously if you wish too. Name, address and DOB ideally but whatever you know would do. It might just be the final piece of information building of 'the jigsaw' that gets a person the offer of help or flag that they need support.
Anyone who is struggling, there is always someone to speak to.
Thanks for reading, I've been MH Nursing in the NHS since 2008, working in Older Persons services since 2010. Be kind to yourselves, look out for one another and take good care
hearing-voices.org/ (edited)
Everyone in the UK is deficient in a number of vitamins and minerals. (edited)
This might be your opinion but it is not evidence-based. The best understanding we currently have of what causes mental health disorders is that it is based on a combination of genetic predisposition along with life events. Certainly, trying to stay physically healthy and maintain a nutritious diet, including taking supplements if necessary, is a good idea in general but what you have said is very misleading (and irresponsible in my opinion). (edited)
Free through the NHS and I was speaking to someone within 2 weeks of referring myself. It’s online chat based, so not face to face but I’ve found it really useful.
Sadly not in my case
You may likely have already been suggested Meditation. It might help. Won’t fix bigger problems, but can help inner peace - BOOKS - Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through The Storm Paperback – by Thich Nhat Hanh.
Also 2 Books by Sharon Salzberg, Power to be Happy 28 days, and Loving Kindness. 3 key meditations, Breath, Body Scan, Loving Kindness. Just 5-10mins, twice a day. (edited)
I hope all that have issues get help as mine have been eating me up and effecting my ability to work, questioning myself, and not doing my job correctly due to the bullying.
Love to all. (edited)
You may have heard some of this before, but it’s true, yet not mainstream enough, yet. MEDITATION (body scan, breath, loving kindness), DIET (10 portions veg and fruit per day), EXERCISE (cycling, swimming good low impact) - all well proven to help health. The body keeps the score, explains with substantial evidence, and fight to change DSM.
Also dance and music, salsa, tango, line dancing, etc. Yoga, Nature.
Hope the bullying matter is resolved. Some are more susceptible. Learning about BOUNDARIES is a great introduction, excellent books available, and starting to be taught in schools and colleges, autistic children, drama students for examples. Still long way to go.
A great resource, especially with Christmas coming up and grief and mental health being overshadowed during holidays.
I've had more benefit from chatting to a therapy AI that actual support from the medical services lately. At the very least it gives me a chance to reflect and question my own thought processes.
You can enter your postcode on the NHS site here and it will tell you who and where your nearest Access Team are:
nhs.uk/ser…ine
Vetinary profession has been proven to be one of the higher at risk for suicide, I am sure anyone in this career already know, but just in case:
nomv.org/
then there is also the Institution of Civil Engineers Benevolent Fund, a charity that offers support to all of their members
icebenfund.com/
Change is natural, even though it is sometimes painful. Time eases us all back into a positive place, even acceptance. We realise, in time, that going through the changes in life/bereavements are balanced by more pleasant changes. Often paving the way for better things to happen, because we appreciate how precious life is, and we are changed into more grateful/gracious people.
Christmas is MEANT to be a celebration of Jesus's birth.
Not all the santa rubbish + marketing.
It's not about selling of gifts that send many into debt.
And, Christmas should not mean pressure to feel part of the crowds that think it's just about people drinking to excess + overeating in large family groups, and singing xmas-pop songs. Many don't realise most carols are Christian songs, as celebrations.
Remembering the true meaning - celebrating the Christ in Christmas - will bring this time of year into its true meaning. The fact that Christ later gave His life to save OURS is the best way to bring gratitude + to remove the sadness felt if you don't feel your situation is very 'Christmassy'.
Big virtual hug to all who need one + trusting that things WILL improve, because God ultimately wants the BEST for us. He doesn't want us to suffer, but He does want us to learn to put the important things first: love for Him, love of others, and love for ourselves... In that order.
Despite what self-obsessed internet 'influencers' might say, WE are not meant to be the most important - we must sometimes get broken-in emotionally by some change or loss in our life to learn/remember humility.
One lesson we often forget might be to 'let go' and 'let God' do His healing + forgiving work in us/for us. Surrendering things we can do nothing to change puts us on the path to heal emotionally and then grow spiritually.
He knows sometimes He must test/refine us with difficult situations to bring us back to His right way of thinking/behaving. We are mere mortals, He is the Higher Power. He WILL restore our happiness once we learn our true life/love lessons.
(edited)
I guess most on here are adults but you may have children who are having mental health difficulties as well, especially at this time of year.
This link is from the children’s mental health services for the U.K. and lists all the services and resources to help your children.
Please note of your child is having extreme mental health challenges and has hurt themselves badly/overdosed or very high risk them please take to your local A&E. they will support but refer through for the children’s mental health crisis team who who see your child as a matter of urgency as opposed to a general waiting list.
I’m seeing a lot of young people struggling at the moment so please just check in on them.
Important piece of advice please hide any medications you may have so they can’t gain access to them.
camhs-resources.co.uk/web…ite
Fantastic thread well done.
Take Care of yourselves and each other.
Thinking of suicide? Are you, or is a young person you know, not coping with life? For confidential suicide prevention advice contact HOPELINE247. (edited)
CBT with a trained professional can be life changing. But if you're not well enough or confident enough to seek one out, at this time, these books could be just what you need to start to give back your life. The 'me' you were before things started to become a problem.
amzn.eu/d/1…KFv
Very well structured and easy to follow.
WAY or Widowed and Young, helping to navigate life after loss.
WAY is a UK charity that offers a peer-to-peer support network for anyone who's lost a partner before their 51st birthday – married or not, with or without children, inclusive of sexual orientation, gender, race and religion.
Get online support from others who understand and access to a 24-hour telephone helpline.
Some people out there might be facing a first Christmas without a partner - so is this worth adding?
They are fantastic charity who supported a family member of mine, who lost a partner young to cancer.
I Never knew what mental health actually was until a few months ago, i have a job 2 kids then bam, just hit me like a brick. Been off work since sept. Had to be resusitated back to life after a near fatal overdose, been sectioned 136 twice.
currently under a phycatrist, mental health home team, and crisis team see my gp twice a week and MIND once a week.
i want my life back!!
This silent and often terrible illness is so very difficult for those experiencing it. My thoughts and best wishes go out to you all. Please reach out if you need to. Stay well everyone.
For me, Xmas can induce a lot more stress and has done over the years - trying to get everything done and perfect at that.....NO MORE. As a family we have decided to dial back a lot, particularly on food and meals so that we can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with each other enjoying games and each other's company.