The modern world is full of stresses and complications, many of which we minimise or take for granted. Grace, a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament advisory group tells us about the importance of World Mental Health Day and the importance of getting support when you need it.
On Friday 10 October we celebrate World Mental Health Day! The themes for this year involve ‘Mental Health in catastrophes and emergencies’ and ‘It is time to prioritise Mental Health in the Work Place’.
While we’re not all working yet, it’s clear that looking after our mental health is becoming increasingly important among all ages as life can be extremely stressful at times, and unforeseen catastrophes and emergencies will definitely impact us negatively and could lead to a decline in our mental health.
If you are struggling, please remember that there are a lot of people who can and are willing to support you for as long as you need:
- Mind is an organisation that campaigns to support those struggling with mental health and can speak to you if and when you need them. On their website, they have a range of support available for you to access, such as information about ways to improve your mental health, local support that you can access and their helplines for you to call when you are struggling. For more information on Mind visit their website
- If you would rather speak to somebody closer to you, family and friends can also be a great option. They can support you in difficult times and some people may feel way more comfortable talking to someone they know and trust. However, you may feel unable to talk to friends and family but still want to speak to someone you know so consider speaking to teachers, guardians or other trusted adults in your life, as they will also be able to support you
- The most important thing is that you don’t suffer in silence – talking to someone can make you feel so much better and can help you feel less alone in difficult times. People care for you and want to look after you, so it’s important to reach out if you’re struggling.
Grace
Mental Health Support
This World Mental Health Day (and every day), don’t suffer in silence. There is a lot of support out there, so please reach out.
- The Samaritans – Whatever you’re going through, Samaritans will face it with you. They’re available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call for free on 116 123 For a full list of services please visit the Samaritans website.
- Shout 85258 – For free, confidential support,24/7, text SHOUT to 85258. If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, trained Shout volunteers are available day or night. For more information visit the Shout website.
- CALM – The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is leading a movement against suicide. You can talk to CALM about anything. Call the CALM helpline on 0800 58 58 58 or message via WhatsApp or webchat – They are open from 5pm until midnight 365 days a year and it’s free to contact. For more about the support CALM offers please visit their website.
- ChildLine – provides support specifically support for under 18s. You can call them on 0800 1111, they are open 24/7, you can also speak to a counsellor 1-2-1 online by visiting the ChildLine website.
- YoungMinds – provide help and advice for people up to the age of 25. For more information about the support they offer you can visit their website.
- Barnardo’s – runs specialist services across the UK for children and young people. To find the support they offer near you check out their website.
- The Mix – is a UK-based charity that provides free, confidential support and counselling for young people under 25. You can find out more about what they offer by visiting their website.
- Switchboard – Listening services, information and support for LGBTQIA+ people. Call 0800 0119 100 – Open 10am-10pm every day. Visit their website.
- MindOut – Mental health service run by and for LGBTQ+ people. Live chat available Monday – Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm. Visit their website.
- LGBT Foundation – Advice, support and information for people identifying as LGBTQ+. Call 03453 30 30 30 – Open between 9am-6pm on week days. Visit their website.
- Mermaids – Supports gender-diverse young people aged 19 and under, their families and carers. Offers a helpline and and webchat. Call 0808 801 0400 – Open 1pm – 8:30pm Monday to Friday. Visit their website.
- African Rainbow Family– Charity that supports people seeking asylum and refugees who are LGBTIQ+ and have African heritage. Visit their website.
- AKT– Supports LGBTQ people aged 16-25 who are homeless or living in a hostile environment. Live chat available Monday – Wednesday from 10am to 5pm. Visit their website.
- Pink Therapy– Online directory of qualified therapists who identify as or are understanding of minority sexual and gender identities. Visit their website.
- Hub of Hope – UK-wide mental health service database for local and national support. Includes a filter for LGBTQ+ support. Visit their website.
