When should I seek help?

Seeking help is often the first step towards getting and staying well, but it can be hard to know how to start or where to turn to. It’s common to feel unsure, and to wonder whether you should try to handle things on your own. But it’s always ok to ask for help – even if you’re not sure you are experiencing a specific mental health problem or if you are supporting someone who does.

You might want to seek help if you’re:

  • worrying more than usual
  • finding it hard to enjoy your life
  • having thoughts and feelings that are difficult to cope with, which have an impact on your day-to-day life
  • interested to find more support or treatment.

If you need urgent help

  • Talk to someone you trust who might be able to help.
  • Contact your key worker if you have one. If you don’t know their direct number call 01481 220000.
  • Contact the Samaritans either by their 24 hour free and confidential helpline on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org or visit the website http://www.samaritans.org
  • Contact your GP and explain that you require an urgent appointment.
  • If you are concerned you might harm yourself or someone else, contact A&E on 01481 220000 or the emergency services on 999.
  • If you are having thoughts or feelings of suicide, you can find support advice here.

Guernsey Mind

Guernsey Mind is a charity whose aim is to support the people of the Bailiwick, encouraging a positive attitude towards mental health and wellbeing. 

If you need help and support and would like to make an appointment to see a referral coach please contact us.

Support in the Bailiwick

It can be difficult to know where to start in order to find support. This quick guide will help you decide where to go next.

 

 

Online support

There is so much support available online, it can be difficult to know where to start and what to need. We have highlighted a few well-established and recognised sites. 

 

National Mind support line

The national Mind support line is a safe space for callers to talk about their mental health. Our advisors are trained to listen and help callers find specialist support if they need it.

While our Infoline offers information about mental health, the support line offers callers:

  • a safe and confidential place to talk openly about their feelings
  • a listening ear, to help callers find the right steps to take for their mental health
  • emotional support for their mental health and wellbeing.

The Helplines team at national Mind recognised the need for callers to have a space to talk about their feelings and mental health.

You can access this service by calling

0300 102 1234

from Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm, excluding Bank Holidays.

Please note, this service is run by national Mind