Accessing NHS mental health services can seem daunting.

But your options include visiting your GP, who can refer you to the right service, self-referral, and calling helplines. 

Visit your GP

Your General Practitioner (GP) is usually the first point of contact. They can assess your needs and refer you to the appropriate mental health services.

Read more about talking to your GP about your mental health here.

Referral to mental health teams

Mental health teams support people living in the community with complex or serious mental health problems. You can get referred to these secondary mental health teams through your GP or another healthcare professional.

Self-referral

In some areas, you can refer yourself directly to psychological therapies without seeing a GP. This is often available through the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme.

You can also self-refer to NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression. They are confidential services delivered by NHS mental health practitioners. Visit the NHS website to learn more.

Urgent mental health support

If you or a loved one is in a mental health crisis, you can call NHS 111 for urgent mental health support. 

Depending on your area, services such as the community mental health team (CMHT) or crisis team can provide assistance.

Alternatively, go to the accident and emergency (A&E) department at your local hospital, or call 999.

Helplines and support groups

There are various helplines and support groups available that can provide immediate support and guide you on how to access further services.

The Rethink Mental Illness advice and information helpline is open from 9.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. Our advisers offer practical advice and information on mental health. Call us on 0808 801 0525.

For a list of emotional support lines, like the Samaritans, visit our ‘I want to talk to someone’ page.

Remember, seeking help is a positive step towards better mental health. If you need support, don't hesitate to reach out to the NHS or other mental health services.