Four Ways to Get Free Mental Health Support
With an increasing number of people suffering from mental health conditions in the UK, it is more vital than ever to spotlight accessible ways to combat the rise.
Access to resources has notoriously been an issue, with long NHS waiting lists to get access to counselling (in some cases, over six months) and the cost of private therapy being prohibitive for most.
These issues have had a range of ramifications, for instance contributing to young people turning to AI ‘therapists’ – a potentially dangerous trend that should be closely monitored.
And many others have been signed off work altogether, adding to the growing numbers of ‘economically inactive’ individuals, as highlighted in the Prime Minister’s recent speech on welfare.
With that in mind, there are ways for individuals to access resources to support their mental health, both through work and educational establishments, as well as outside.
1. Speak to your employer about introducing or increasing support resources
In the workplace, mental health resources could include access to confidential counselling services, Mental Health First Aid, mental health awareness workshops, stress management seminars, or mindfulness sessions to provide employees with tools for coping with workplace stressors.
Speaking to your employer about implementing free mental health help resources is also essential for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace, fostering a more supportive and caring workplace environment.
Flexible work arrangements and a healthy work-life balance policy can also contribute to mental wellbeing. And while these benefits may not be currently available in a lot of businesses, speaking to employers or managers about considering their implementation in the near future is a step in the right direction, both for yourself and for others.
2. Ask about free counselling services at school or university
Educational institutions often offer counselling services with trained professionals who can assist students in navigating personal challenges, stressors, or mental health concerns.
Additionally, many universities have mental health and wellbeing teams that organise workshops, support groups, and awareness campaigns. Joining in can be beneficial both in terms of finding a community of like-minded people as well as contributing to making a positive impact for others.
Through educational establishments, students can often find resources such as self-help guides, online mental health assessments, and information on local mental health services.
Some institutions also have peer support programmes, allowing students to connect with fellow students who have received training to offer empathetic listening and guidance.
3. Reach out to charities
In the UK, individuals seeking mental health support can utilise the various resources provided by charities. Charities such as Mind, Samaritans, and Rethink Mental Illness offer helplines, online chat services, and informational resources for those in need.
These organisations often provide guidance on a range of mental health issues, as well as offering community-based services, support groups, and online forums. Additionally, some charities focus on specific demographics or mental health concerns, providing tailored assistance.
4. Join a support group
Charities like Mind and Rethink Mental Illness organise support groups nationwide, covering a spectrum of mental health issues. Other local charities or organisations may also offer specific support and peer-led groups focusing on anxiety, depression, or other conditions.
Some of these may be online platforms, offering accessibility to individuals regardless of their location. These support groups play a crucial role in reducing isolation, creating a safe space for individuals to share and learn coping strategies for navigating the challenges of mental health struggles.
While it may not be easy to accept that you may be experiencing issues with mental health, or to talk to others about this, seeking help is always a step in the right direction.
Whether opening up to a manager at work or actively looking to take part in support groups, you’ll be closer to finding a solution to deal with a specific problem or condition that works for you.
Looking to learn more about mental health training resources for workplaces? Simply get in touch with our team today.
