Need help? 10 mental health support groups

Martin Docherty mental health conditions, mental health support

No one should have to suffer poor mental health alone, so we’ve compiled a list of 10 support groups that can help you out

Mental health problems can be rubbish. We know it. You know it. We’ve all experienced it in some way, whether it’s a rough day or two, or far longer and more complicated issues. No one should have to go through mental ill-health alone – and that’s what mental health support is for. We’ve put together this list of 10 trusted mental health support groups for information, support, or campaigning in mental health.

🧠 Citizens Advice

Citizen’s Advice is a fantastic service where you can access information regarding almost anything. This could be complaints about how your mental health is being handled, to applying for benefits!

🧠 Young Minds

Young Minds offers mental health advice for young people. They offer a phone line for parents, as well as plenty of advice on how to look after yourself. There are also digital courses for sensitive topics, such as overcoming self harm. You can also use the website to get involved with campaigning and support of mental health issues.

🧠 BACP Find a Therapist Directory

The British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP) gives you immediate information on local therapists and specialists in areas of mental health. You can also call them here: 01455 883300

🧠 PANDAS

PANDAS Foundation UK supports anyone suffering from prenatal or postnatal depression or psychosis in the UK. Their site contains fantastic articles, access to support networks, and helplines!

🧠 Childline

Childline is a free, national helpline for young people in trouble or danger: 0800 1111. They also offer online advice and information for young people suffering from mental health problems, and related issues.

🧠 Nightline

Nightline is a listening, support, information and supplies service, run by students for students. The service covers mental health and general personal life issues, and can be contacted by phone, face to face, email or online chat. Any student can reach nightline at their institution’s contact point, which can be found here.

🧠 CALM

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is a brilliant organisation actively raising awareness for and providing mental health support for men. Men can often struggle to reach out for help when suffering from poor mental health. Suicide is currently the biggest killer of men aged under 45 in the UK.

🧠 Beat

Beat are the UK’s eating disorder charity. Their mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders, and they provide free to call helplines for people of all ages, offering support and information about eating disorders.

🧠 Switchboard

Switchboard are an LGBT+ helpline. They are a safe space for anyone to discuss anything, including sexuality, gender identity, sexual health and emotional well-being. You can contact them by phone, email or instant messaging.

🧠 Mental Health Foundation

The MHF is dedicated to finding and addressing the sources of mental health problems. Alongside A-Z guides for mental health and tips for looking after your mind, they have active campaigns like Mental Health Awareness Week, and you can get involved in their charity fun runs!

Suffering from a mental health problem can often feel like a very lonely experience. But help is out there, and there is no shame in asking for support. Whether opening up to a friend or sharing your experiences with your GP, you should feel proud of taking steps to seek help.

Getting mental health support

We recognise it’s not always easy to get the help you need in the current healthcare system. There are long waiting times and, on top of that, social barriers that can make it even harder. For example, there’s a harmful stereotype that boys and men don’t struggle with mental health, when of course we know that they do. Gender, race, being disabled, and being neurodivergent (and more) can all play a part. It also takes a lot of energy to ask for help, and you might not have lots of energy at the moment. If all you can manage is talking to a trusted adult, then that’s a good place to start. Childline has lots of tips for who that ‘trusted adult’ may be for you, and how to start the conversation.

If you’re feeling frustrated about the current situation, you’re not alone. YoungMinds are currently campaigning specifically for more mental health support for young people: #EndTheWait. Fumble backs this campaign and we are committed to fighting for better mental health support, for all young people.