Good to Talk · Things you can do yourself · Free. Always.
Let them in
Self-help is not the right tool for an emergency. If you or someone else is in danger, call 999 or go to A&E. In England, if you need urgent mental-health help but it is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111 and select the mental-health option.
The person closest to you may already know something is wrong. They may just not know what it is.
Say what you know, not what you don't
“I'm struggling and I don't really know why” is useful information. You do not need a diagnosis before having the conversation.
Tell them what would help
Listening? A hug? Space for an hour? Help booking a GP appointment? Taking something off your plate? Specific requests are easier to respond to.
Remember they're affected too
Support works better when both people can be honest about impact and boundaries. A partner can be tremendous support without becoming your only source of help or your therapist.
Self-help doesn't mean alone
Good to Talk homeWhen to get helpWhen self-help isn't enough
Sources & further reading
- NHS Every Mind Matters — mental wellbeing tips
- NHS Every Mind Matters — mental health issues
- NHS — self-help
Self-help can support mental wellbeing, but it is not a substitute for professional assessment or treatment when those are needed.