Good to Talk · Things you can do yourself · Free. Always.
Helping yourself can include asking for help
Self-help is not the right tool for an emergency. If you or someone else is in danger, call 999 or go to A&E. If you need urgent mental-health help but it is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111 and select the mental-health option.
“Self-help” should never be translated as “sort yourself out on your own”.
Use tools, not tests
Walking, routines, breathing, journalling, sleep habits and social connection are tools. If they do not solve the problem, you have not failed the test.
Combine approaches
Professional treatment and practical self-help can work alongside each other. If you're prescribed medication, lifestyle support does not mean ignoring the prescription; if you're in therapy, exercise does not replace the therapy.
Escalating is progress
Realising “this isn't enough, I need proper help” is useful self-awareness. Our next Good to Talk release will explain exactly what getting professional help can look like.
Self-help doesn't mean alone
Good to Talk home · When to get help · When self-help isn't enough
Sources & further reading
- NHS Every Mind Matters — mental wellbeing tips
- NHS Every Mind Matters — mental health issues
- NHS — self-help
Self-help can support mental wellbeing, but it is not a substitute for professional assessment or treatment when those are needed.