A Guide to Support Services Across the UK

Mental health difficulties and addiction can affect anyone, at any time. You don’t have to face these challenges alone, there are many support options across the UK to help you on your journey to recovery and wellbeing.

How to Find Local Mental Health Support

If you’re struggling with your mental health, the first step is often to reach out for help in your community. Here are some places to start:

  • Your GP surgery: Your doctor can assess your needs, offer treatment or medication, and refer you to specialist mental health services if necessary.
  • Local councils: Many councils provide mental health support services such as helplines, crisis teams, and therapy sessions.

NHS & National Services

England

  • NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT): Adults aged 18+ can self-refer directly for support with anxiety, depression, or stress, without needing a GP referral.

Scotland

  • NHS 24 Mental Health Hub: Call 111 for support with distress, low mood, or suicidal thoughts.
  • Breathing Space: Free confidential phone support for anyone over 16 experiencing depression, low mood, or anxiety. Available Mon–Thu 6 pm–2 am, Fri 6 pm–Mon 6 am.

Wales

  • Psychological therapy services are available via local health boards (IAPT equivalents).

Northern Ireland

  • Health and Social Care Trust services, including Lifeline NI (24/7 crisis response), provide mental health support.

Urgent Support

  • If you need immediate help, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
  • In England, NHS 111 (online or by phone) can guide you to urgent mental health care.

Understanding Addiction Support Services

If you or someone you care about is struggling with drug, alcohol, or gambling use, help is available, just like with any other health condition.

  • Start with your GP: Discuss your situation, get advice, and access referrals.
  • Self-referral: Many local drug and alcohol treatment services accept self-referrals.

Treatment Options

  • Talking therapies (e.g. CBT) to address behaviours linked to substance use.
  • Medication-assisted treatment (methadone, buprenorphine) for opioid dependence.
  • Detoxification and rehabilitation, including inpatient services if needed.
  • Harm reduction services (infection testing, needle exchange programmes).
  • Peer support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery.
  • Gambling support Services like GamCare and regional providers such as Beacon Counselling Trust offer confidential advice and treatment, recognised within NHS-endorsed pathways.

Keyworkers usually coordinate care and provide ongoing support throughout treatment.

The UK Government’s Addiction Healthcare Goals initiative (updated October 2025) forms part of the national “From Harm to Hope” strategy, focusing on research, innovation, and expanded access to treatment across the UK.

Additional Support and Resources

  • Mental health crisis teams: Urgent help outside hospitals.
  • Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS): Support for under-18s.
  • Digital and phone support: Online or telephone appointments improve access.
  • Charities and helplines: Mind, Adfam, Frank, Alcoholics Anonymous, and others offer guidance and peer support.
  • Financial or housing issues: Local councils and charities can help, as these factors affect mental health and recovery.

Online Tools & Self-Help

  • Every Mind Matters (NHS): Tips for stress, sleep, and mood management.
  • SilverCloud: Online CBT therapy platforms (free via some NHS services).
  • Headspace or Calm: Mindfulness apps (some free offers available).

Peer Support & Forums

Seeking help can feel daunting, but taking the first step is a sign of strength. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Whether you start with your GP, contact a local service, or reach out to a helpline, there are people ready to listen and help.

Don’t Forget

If you’re managing mental health, addiction challenges, or a low income, keeping up with everyday costs like heating and energy can be difficult. Government-funded programmes like ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) can help eligible households by:

  • Improving home insulation and heating.
  • Reducing energy bills.
  • Creating warmer, healthier living spaces.

Check your eligibility here, it’s free, quick, and could make a real difference to your comfort, wellbeing, and household finances.