Mental Health

The number of people with mental health problems has not changed in recent years, but worries about things like money, jobs and benefits can make it harder for people to cope. There are four steps we can all take to improve our mental health. If you give them a try, you may feel happier, more positive and able to get the most from life:

  1. Connect - talk to someone.
  2. Be active - physical activity can help you feel happier.
  3. Learn - try something new.
  4. Give - a simple act of kindness can go a long way.

Get help in a crisis

Shout is the UK's first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It is a place to go if you are struggling to cope and you need help now. Text "shout" on 85258 or find out more at the Give us a Shout website.

Talk to someone

Many people who live with a mental health problem try to keep their feelings hidden because they are afraid of other people’s reactions. However, one of the best things you can do to improve your mental health is talk about it. If you would like to talk to someone about mental health issues there are a number of local contacts there to help:

  • Talking Shop: Contact the Talking Shop at 01302 565650
  • Single Point Access, Adult Mental Health Services: For more information on this service, visit the Rotherham, Doncaster and Sheffield NHS site
  • The Samaritans: Tel: 116 123 free from any phone or 0330 094 5717 (local call charges apply) or you can visit: 36 Thorne Road, Doncaster DN1 2JA
  • Mind: More information about Mind and the work they do, plus how to contact them can be found at their website.

Have you been affected by suicide?

Amparo is a suicide Bereavement Support Service that offers practical and emotional support after suicide. You can self refer on the Listening Ear website.

Every Mind Matters - Your Mind Plan

You can visit the Every Mind Matters section of the NHS websiteto get top tips and advice on supporting your mental health.

Another Way

 

For Mental Health Awareness Week, Doncaster Council ran a campaign called 'Another Way'.

Want to talk to someone?

Samaritans is available round the clock, every single day of the year, for anyone who is struggling to cope.

You can call Samaritans for free from any phone on 116 123 or email them at jo@samaritans.org. 

For a range of other local and national support services download the 'Support services for mental wellbeing' pdf list.

Get help in an emergency

If someone's life is in danger telephone 999.

Worried about someone else?

If you're worried about someone else, try to get them to talk to you. Often people will want to talk but wait until someone starts a conversation. Ask open ended questions like "what happened about... tell me more about... or how do you feel about...?" Don't worry about having the answers. Just listening to what someone has to say and taking it seriously can be helpful. For more advice, see the Samaritans advice on how to start a difficult conversation.

Be there for someone

If you would like to take part in free training to support people who may be at risk of taking their own life follow the Zero Suicide Alliance website.