Mental Health Support You Can Access From Home
When getting out is hard, help can still come to you
World Mental Health Day falls on 10 October each year. Living with a disability or long-term health condition can take a toll on your mental health, and when travelling to appointments is difficult, asking for help can feel like one more hurdle.
Much of the support out there is now available by phone, video or text, so you can get help without leaving the house. Here's where to start.
Talking Therapies Without a GP Referral
In England, you can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies for problems such as anxiety and depression, without seeing a GP first. It's free, and it can also help if you're finding it hard to cope with a long-term health condition.
Sessions can be in person, by phone or video call, or through an online course. You'll need to be registered with a GP and aged 18 or over (16 or over in some areas). You can find your local service on the NHS website.
If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, ask your GP which talking therapies are available near you.
Ask Your GP for What You Need
GP appointments can be face to face, over the phone or online. If getting to the surgery is difficult, it's worth mentioning when you book.
Health services, including GP surgeries, also have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people. That could mean a longer appointment if you need more time, or a quiet space to wait.
Someone to Talk To
Support and Information Lines
- Samaritans: call free on 116 123, any time, day or night.
- Shout: text SHOUT to 85258 for confidential support by text, 24 hours a day. Texts are free on all major UK mobile networks. A good option if talking on the phone is difficult.
- Mind Infoline (England and Wales): call 0300 123 3393, 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays), for information on mental health problems and where to get help near you. Calls may be charged.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999.
Small Things Count Too
Support doesn't always have to be formal. A regular phone call with a friend, a message to someone you haven't spoken to in a while, or a few minutes in daylight by an open window or door can all help on a hard day.
A Little Warmth on a Hard Day
There's a reason a hot water bottle feels so comforting. Gentle warmth can ease stiff muscles and aching joints, and many people find it helps them unwind in the evening or settle before bed. On a low day, curling up with something warm is a small, simple way to look after yourself.
Our hot water bottles are handmade in the UK, with a soft cover that comes off for the washing machine. If you'd rather not handle hot water, our lavender wheat warmers can be heated in the microwave, following the supplied instructions for your microwave's wattage. The gentle lavender scent is a nice way to wind down.
Shop hot water bottles and wheat warmersUsing a Hot Water Bottle Safely
- Never use freshly boiled water. Let it cool for a few minutes first.
- Fill it about two thirds full, then gently squeeze out the air before closing.
- Always use a cover, and don't place it directly on your skin.
- Check for splits or cracks, and make sure the stopper screws on tightly.
- Look for the flower symbol on the bottle. The number in the middle shows the year it was made, and Trading Standards suggests replacing bottles two to three years after first use.
- Do not apply heat to areas where you have reduced feeling or numbness. Ask your GP or nurse about suitable alternatives.
You Don't Have to Manage Alone
Reaching out can feel like a big step, especially if you're used to managing on your own. Whichever option feels easiest, it's worth taking.
And on the days when everything feels like too much, start small: a hot water bottle, a warm drink and a call to someone who cares.
3 comments
Great advice
Is this help only available in England? I live in Scotland, thankyou.
Found it very helpful.