Mental Health Support for Families: Resources and Helplines

What is mental health?

Mental health is about how you feel in your mind. It is also about how you think and how you cope with life.

If you feel happy, sad, worried, or relaxed, that is all part of mental health.

Good mental health means you can handle your feelings most of the time.

You can use things like talking to a friend or writing in a journal to help with your mental health.

What is a mental health crisis?

A mental health crisis is when someone feels very upset or stressed. It can be hard to cope with feelings during this time.

People might feel very sad, scared, or mixed up.

If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, it's important to get help from a trusted adult or call a doctor.

Using pictures, drawing, or calming music can help you feel better.

Who can I call if I feel very upset and need help?

If you feel very upset and need someone to talk to, you can call a special phone number for help.

You can ask an adult for help to make the call. They might use a phone or computer to call someone who can listen and help you feel better.

What does a GP do to help with mental health?

A GP is a doctor you can see when you are not feeling well or if you have problems.

If you feel sad, worried, or have any other feelings that are hard to deal with, you can talk to your GP.

Your GP can listen to you, give advice, and help you find the right support.

They might suggest talking to a counselor or another doctor who knows a lot about feelings and thoughts.

To make it easier, you can write down your feelings or questions before seeing the GP.

You can also bring a friend or family member with you to the appointment.

Where can families get help for mental health problems?

Families can get help for mental health problems in different places:

• Doctors and Health Clinics: Visit your family doctor. They can give advice and recommend specialists.
• Counselors and Therapists: Talk to someone who listens and understands. They can help you feel better.
• Hotlines: Call a helpline to talk to someone at any time.
• Support Groups: Join a group to talk to other families going through the same things.
• Online Resources: Use websites that offer tips and advice for mental health.

Remember, it is okay to ask for help. You are not alone. There are many people who want to support you and your family.

Can families get help for mental health problems?

Do you have someone in your family with mental health problems? You can join a group with other families. These groups talk and support each other. They help you feel better and share ideas.

Here are some things you can try:

• Join a support group in your area.
• Look for help online.
• Talk to a doctor or therapist.

These groups and people want to help you and your family feel better.

What is CAMHS?

CAMHS helps children and teenagers with their feelings and behavior. They are experts who talk and listen to you. They want to help you feel better. If you need help, you can talk to an adult you trust, like a parent or teacher, and they can help you find CAMHS.

Tips to make reading easier: You can ask someone to read with you, like a parent, friend, or teacher. You can also take breaks if you get tired. Point with your finger to follow the words.

How can I help a family member who has a mental health problem?

You can help by listening to them when they want to talk. Be kind and patient with them.

Sometimes, they might need to see a doctor or a therapist. You can help them make an appointment.

Try to learn about their mental health problem so you can understand them better.

Let them know you care about them and that they are not alone.

Encourage them to do activities they enjoy, like drawing, walking, or listening to music.

You can also ask if there is anything special they need help with.

What is talking therapy?

Talking therapy is when you talk to someone who listens and helps you with your feelings. This person is trained to help you feel better.

Talking therapy can help you if you are sad, worried, or have other feelings that are hard to handle.

Some people find it helpful to write down their feelings in a diary or draw pictures. These can also be good ways to help you feel better.

Using apps or watching videos about how to relax and feel calm can also be helpful.

Can you get free mental health help with the NHS?

Yes, the NHS gives free mental health help. You can see a doctor or talk to someone about your feelings. They are there to help you feel better.

If you need help:

• Talk to your doctor. They can help you find the right support.
• You can also call a helpline to talk to someone who can help.

Remember, it is okay to ask for help. You are not alone.

What is the Samaritans phone line?

The Samaritans have a special phone line to help people who feel sad or worried.

If you need someone to talk to, you can call them.

They are always there to listen and help, day or night.

You can call for free, and it is private. This means no one else will know what you talk about.

You can also use tools like picture books or simple apps to help understand your feelings.

How can I find help for my mental health in the UK?

If you feel sad, worried, or stressed, there are people who can help you. Here is how you can find mental health services in the UK:

• Visit your doctor: Talk to your doctor about how you feel. They can help you find the right support.
• Call a helpline: Use the phone to call a helpline. They can listen and give advice. Samaritans is a helpline you can call at any time on 116 123.
• Look online: Visit websites like NHS or Mind. They have lots of information to help you.
• Talk to someone you trust: Share your feelings with a friend or family member. They can support you and help you find more help.

Remember, it's okay to ask for help. You are not alone.

What is peer support?

Peer support is when people help each other. These people have had similar experiences. They understand what you are going through. They listen, talk, and give advice. It can make you feel better and less alone.

To find peer support, you can:

• Join a group that talks about what you are going through
• Talk to someone who has been through the same thing
• Use online chat groups to share your story

Talking with others can be very comforting. It helps to know you are not alone.

What can help kids feel better in their minds?

There are lots of ways to help kids who feel upset or worried.

• Talk to someone you trust, like a teacher or family member.
• Ask your doctor about seeing a counselor.
• Use apps or websites for kids to help them feel calm and happy.
• Read books or watch videos about feelings with a grown-up.
• Join a group or club to make friends and have fun.

If it is hard to read, ask someone to read it with you or use a tool that reads the words aloud.

Can I get money help if I look after someone with mental health problems?

If you take care of someone who is not feeling well in their mind, you might be able to get some money help.

Here are some things you can do to find out:

• Talk to a person who helps with money at a support center.
• Look for websites that give information about helping carers.
• Ask for help from a social worker.

These people can tell you more about what money help you can get.