Health / mental health
Where to get mental health support in Bristol
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increase in people experiencing mental health problems.
A recent report from the Office for National Statistics found that nearly one in five UK adults experienced depression in June 2020 and many people with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety, OCD and eating disorders, have had to cope with increase strain on living with mental illnesses that are already difficult to live with.
There are many mental health organisations that can help with mental health concerns:
NHS
A GP is often the first step in finding support. A doctor can direct to the best services to fit the situation, which can include support groups and specific mental health services provided by the NHS.
Bristol Mental Health
As well as providing a 24-hour emergency helpline, Bristol Mental Health is the go-to place to find out about NHS-funded services in the city. Working with 18 different organisations, the organisation can help with anything from helping people take steps into re-employment to supporting those with dementia.
There are lots of organisations who can support you with mental health concerns. Photo: Southmead Hospital Charity
Bristol Mind
The Bristol branch of Mind, which provides services and advocates for positive and accessible mental health support, can help through their range of services, which include advocacy and advice. There is 24-hour helpline open seven nights a week from 7pm to 11pm (0808 808 0330) and a specific helpline for transgender people open from Monday to Friday, from 8pm to midnight.
Second Step
Second Step works with Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health NHS Partnership to ensure everyone in Bristol receives the treatment and support they need for their mental health. The organisation primarily focuses on supporting people with mental health problems in their homes and helping people suffering with their mental health to live independently.
Off The Record
A mental health social movement by and for young people in Bristol, Off The Record promotes better mental health for 11- to 25-year-olds. They offer services including support with self-harm, free one-to-one therapy, and specific groups for young people from different backgrounds.
Off The Record can support young people with a range of mental health support. Photo: Off The Record
Rethink Mental Illness
With groups across the country, including in Bristol, Rethink Mental Illness support people within the community and work with them to build meaningful connections. The organisation’s support anyone with a mental health problem and focuses on helping individuals with whatever their mental health goal is.
Changes Bristol
A mental health charity that provides weekly peer support meetings for those in mental “distress”, all of Changes Bristol‘s services are free to access without needing a formal diagnosis. Groups are currently running online every weekday.
Womankind
“Run by women for women”, Womankind offers professional counselling, group psychotherapy, befriending and a helpline. Founded in 1986, they support anyone identifying as a woman to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call Samaritans on 116 123 or Bristol Mental Health on 0300 555 0334.
Main photo: Off The Record
Read more: Improving mental health support for LGBTQ+ people
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