Good to Talk · Free. Always.
When should I get help?
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.
You don't need to be at breaking point. Earlier is allowed.
Consider professional help when
- how you feel has persisted or keeps returning
- work, relationships, sleep or ordinary tasks are being affected
- you're withdrawing from people or things you normally enjoy
- alcohol, drugs, gambling or other behaviours are becoming a way of coping
- self-help isn't enough
- you are frightened by your thoughts or behaviour
- somebody close to you is worried
Your GP is a reasonable starting point
You can describe what has changed, how long it has been happening and how it affects daily life. You do not need to arrive with your own diagnosis. In England, many people can also self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies for non-urgent support.
Urgent is different
If you cannot keep yourself safe, are in immediate danger, or need urgent mental-health help, use the current NHS urgent-support routes shown on this page.
Keep going
Sources & further reading
- NHS — feelings and symptoms
- NHS Every Mind Matters — mental health issues
- NICE NG222 — depression in adults: treatment and management
Clinical information should be reviewed periodically against current NHS/NICE guidance. This content is educational and is not a diagnosis.