These free Talking Therapy services are designed to support your loved ones’ mental wellbeing. They can help if your loved one or someone you know has been struggling with:
Anyone can request to access an assessment by these NHS Talking Therapy services for themselves. Simply fill out a self-referral form or speak to a GP.
Listening is an important skill. Offer your time to listen. Ask open questions that start with “how”, “what”, “where” or “when”. This can help people open up.
Be patient. You will not always know the full story. There may be reasons why they have found it difficult to ask for help. Just being there can be helpful for someone who may want to open up later.
Act as you usually do together. Do what you usually do – behaving differently can make someone feel more isolated. Do not be afraid to offer kind words and a space to talk, whether by phone, messaging or in person.
What If they do not want support? Gently explore their reasons for not wanting to get support. If they are unsure whether to get help, just talking and listening without judgement could help work out what’s getting in the way.
Do not force someone to talk to you or get help, and do not go to a doctor on their behalf. This may lead to them feeling uncomfortable, with less power and less able to speak for themselves.
Talking to someone about suicide is not easy. Here’s how you can support someone who is feeling suicidal:
Visit Samaritans for more tips on how to start a difficult conversation with someone you are worried about.
Visit Rethink for information on how to support someone who is having suicidal thoughts.
You can also attend this free online training on suicide prevention.
It can be upsetting to hear that someone you care about is in distress. But it’s so important to look after yourself. Be kind to yourself and take some time to step back, relax or do something you enjoy. Remember, Every Mind Matters.
Carers support groups are available in Bexley (Carers Support and Bexley Mencap), Bromley and Lambeth.
You can also attend the Carers Forums in Greenwich, Lewisham, Lambeth, and Southwark if you are caring for someone with a mental condition; the Forum meets monthly. For more information, including dates and location please contact Matthew Mckenzie on mmckenz11@hotmail.com, visit A Caring Mind blog or call 07881301059.
There are other support services you can attend, such as:
Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) – If you are a parent and have concerns about your child’s mental health, please contact:
Dementia Friends by Alzheimer’s Society provides support to patients and their families. This initiative is aimed at changing people’s perception of dementia, educating more people about dementia and the small ways that everyone can help.
Bereavement support – Information on bereavement, where to go for support, and suggestions for helping yourself and others through grief.
Find further guidance about coping with bereavement, including information about the stages of grief to help you recognise that what you may be going through is normal.
You can also access this list of organisations and resources that can be helpful during bereavement:
Whether you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, get information on helplines and support groups that can offer expert advice in south east London.
Looking for tips and expert advice to help loved ones who are worried or anxious about coronavirus (COVID-19)? Learn how to help them look after their mental health and wellbeing during this time.
Support for families struggling under the Coronavirus pandemic is available on Families Under Pressure – 8 short films featuring recognisable voices offering parenting tips and informative resources.
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