Some young people find that they need additional support to help them manage their mental health.
This might be because:
Their difficulties are not improving or are getting worse
Their difficulties are so bad that they are stopping them from doing things, such as going to school or looking after their physical health
They are engaging in risky ways of managing their mental health such as self-harming
Watch our video below to learn more about what mental health difficulties might look like in young people.
It’s important that you reach out for support with your mental health if you arestruggling. Watch the video below to learn more about reaching out for mental health support.
There are lots of local services you can contact for support with mental health. Watch our video below to learn more.
Here are some local services that can support you with your mental health:
Text messaging services
ChatHealth is an NHS service offered to 11-19 year olds. You can text a question to 07520 615 386 and a healthcare professional will get back to you within 24 hours. This is not an emergency service and runs Monday-Friday between 9am – 5pm (except bank holidays). You can also start a text messaging conversation with your school nurse from this page by clicking the ‘start a chat’ option.
ChatAutism is a text messaging service for diagnosed and non-diagnosed autistic people, their families and carers. Text 07312 277097 and a healthcare professional will get back to you within 24 hours. This is not an emergency service and runs Monday-Friday between 9am – 5pm (except bank holidays).
SHOUT– Feeling worried or low? Need to talk? Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for free and confidential support, 24/7. Texting the word ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 is anonymous and will not show up on your phone bill.
Apps you can download
Tellmi allows an online safe and anonymous space for young people to discuss their feelings, seek support and receive counselling when necessary. It is available 365 days a year. Tellmi also offers free therapy for anyone aged 11 and over in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. Tellmi’s 1‑to‑1 text‑based therapy focuses on finding things that can help, instead of only looking at the problems. Click here for more information about Tellmi.
My self referral – You can ask for help yourself by filling in an online self‑referral form or your GP or school nurse can make a referral to Triage and Navigation. They will be able to send your referral to the most appropriate service to meet your needs. You can refer yourself for help with: anxiety, depression, managing thoughts and feelings, phobias and more. Click here for more information about My Self Referral.
Urgent support
If you need urgent mental health support, you can call NHS 111 and press option 2. NHS 111 is also available online. Click hereand follow the on screen instructions. This service is totally free and confidential. You and/or your family can call NHS 111 and choose Option 2, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Watch our short video where we break down exactly where you can get mental health support – starting with not-so-urgent options all the way up to the places you can go when things feel unsafe.
