Find Support
Real-world UK support options. Tell us what matters to you and we’ll sort the list — you pick what feels right.
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This is a directory sorted by the preferences you choose above, not advice, a recommendation, or a clinical assessment. Nothing about you or your conversations affects this list. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
10 options
NHS Talking Therapies
Free NHS therapy for anxiety, low mood, and stress in England. You can refer yourself online, no GP appointment needed. Offers CBT and other evidence-based therapies by phone, video, or in person. There is usually a waiting list.
Free · Waiting list · Self-referral · Online / Phone / In person
Book a GP appointment
Your GP can talk through what you're experiencing, rule out physical causes, and refer you on to specialist services. Free on the NHS, and the gateway to most other treatment and support.
Free · Usually within days · Contact directly · In person / Phone / Online
NHS 111, mental health option
Call 111 and select the mental health option to speak to a trained professional any time, day or night. For urgent mental health concerns that are not life-threatening, they can arrange urgent local support.
Free · Available now · Contact directly · Phone / Online · 24/7
Samaritans
Call 116 123 free from any phone, any time, day or night. A trained volunteer will listen without judgement. You don't have to be suicidal to call, and you don't have to give your name.
Free · Available now · Contact directly · Phone · Anonymous · 24/7
Shout 85258
Text SHOUT to 85258 for a free, confidential conversation by text with a trained volunteer, any time. Anonymous, silent, and useful when talking out loud feels too hard.
Free · Available now · Contact directly · Text · Anonymous · 24/7
999 or A&E
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, or you have seriously harmed yourself, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E now. Mental health emergencies are real emergencies.
Free · Available now · Contact directly · Phone / In person · 24/7
Private therapy (BACP / UKCP)
Find an accredited private therapist through the BACP or UKCP professional directories. You choose the therapist and the style of therapy, and can usually start within days. Sessions are paid; many therapists offer an initial call or lower-cost places.
Paid · Usually within days · Contact directly · Online / In person / Phone
Mind and mental health charities
Mind offers clear information on mental health, money, and legal rights, plus an information line on 0300 123 3393. Local Minds run low-cost talking therapies and support groups across England and Wales.
Free · Usually within days · Contact directly · Phone / Online / In person · Anonymous · Infoline Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm
Your university's counselling service
If you're a student, your university almost certainly runs a free counselling or wellbeing service. Search your university's name plus 'counselling', or check your student portal. You can usually refer yourself without seeing a GP.
Free · Waiting list · Self-referral · In person / Online
Hub of Hope: local and peer support
A UK-wide directory run by the charity Chasing the Stigma. Enter your postcode to find local mental health services, peer support groups, and community organisations near you.
Free · Usually within days · Contact directly · Online / In person · Anonymous