Where to get help

When you’re struggling with your mental health, you might feel isolated or alone. However, it’s essential to remember that support is available. The decision to seek help can help set you on a journey towards feeling better.

Knowing where to turn can make it easier to take the first step, and this article will explore the options you can choose from.

Social Media

Social media platforms offer a wealth of mental health resources and communities that can provide support and encouragement. Following us here at Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland (YSPI) is a great way to access information that can help you take care of your emotional wellbeing.

You can also choose to follow other mental health organisations or professionals, join groups or search using hashtags to find spaces dedicated to mental health topics that are important to you.

This may give you chance to engage with other people who may have been through similar experiences, which can offer a sense of connection and understanding. However, remember to fact check the information you consume, and prioritise getting your information from a reliable source.

Chatlines and Helplines

Sometimes it feels easier to talk to someone anonymously, on the phone, or by text. If you’re in need of immediate support, chatlines and helplines are often available 24 hours a day to provide confidential help. 

If you are in crisis or are concerned about someone else, you can FreeText 50015 for immediate mental health support and suicide prevention information that is available 24/7. 

The Samaritans’ services are also available 24 hours a day to offer confidential, non-judgmental support. Freephone 116 123 for support.

Doctors

Your GP is trained to help you manage your mental health, so book an appointment to discuss your symptoms and worries openly. Your doctor will assess your overall health and provide advice on next steps, which might include a talking therapy like counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication, and a follow up appointment to see how you are getting on. 

If needed, they may refer you to a mental health specialist or a community mental health team for more support.

Counselling

Counselling or therapy provides a structured environment for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, behaviours and fears with a trained professional.

Counselling may be available through your school or workplace, or your GP may refer you. You may also be able to access counselling through YSPI’s Youth Crisis Counselling Service.

If these options are not available, consider accessing a private service. Some private counselling services offer sliding-scale fees which may make it more affordable.

Charities

Various charities and non-profit organisations are dedicated to supporting people affected by mental health issues. 

YSPI funds immediate access to counselling for those who are in crisis, as well as the FreeText service for those in need of immediate help or information. Various programmes and resources are available on our website to help you learn more about looking after your mental health. The information packs are also suitable for those trying to support others.

A full list of helplines and support groups is available at www.ineedhelp.ie.

Online Forums and Support Groups

Virtual spaces can be a good place to connect with others facing similar mental health challenges. Engaging with online communities can offer a sense of belonging, and reduce feelings of isolation. You may find it more helpful to look for moderated forums where you can share your experiences and seek advice in a safer way. 

Self-Help Resources

In addition to professional support, self-help resources can empower you to take an active role in managing your mental health. Books, podcasts, apps and online articles offer a wealth of information on topics including mindfulness, stress management and coping skills. Take advantage of these resources to learn new strategies for promoting mental wellbeing and resilience in your daily life.  Visit www.letstalk.ie for a wide range of mental health resources, guides and supports.

School, College and Workplace Resources

Workplaces and educational establishments may offer mental health resources to support employees and students. 

Ask your manager or members of the teaching staff about the help that you might be able to access. This could include free counselling sessions, workshops, wellbeing clubs or programmes to address a range of mental health concerns. 

Student- or staff-led organisations or clubs may arrange events or initiatives to promote mental health awareness at work or school.

Final Thoughts

If you have reached out to friends or family already, or simply feel you need professional support with your mental health, help is available in a variety of places. Start by approaching the source of help that you think will best suit your needs, whether that’s online support, phoning a charity helpline, or speaking to your GP. 

You may find that one of the above suggestions provides the help you need. Alternatively, your mental health may benefit from using a combination of services.