If you believe there is an emergency
If you’re scared that someone might hurt themselves, someone else, or is in immediate danger, you don’t have to handle it alone. Here’s what you can do:
- Call 999 – Mental health emergencies are just as real as physical ones. You won’t be wasting anyone’s time.
- Stay with them if it’s safe, or make sure someone else can. Your presence can be a lifeline.
- Reach out for urgent support:
- Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or email jo@samaritans.org
- Text SHOUT to 85258 for a confidential, 24/7 crisis text line
- Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for local crisis services
Recognising the Signs
Mental health struggles can show up in many ways. Some common signs include:
- Emotional changes: persistent sadness, irritability, anxiety, or mood swings.
- Behavioural shifts: withdrawal from friends or activities, changes in sleep or eating habits, or increased use of substances.
- Cognitive difficulties: trouble concentrating, expressing thoughts, or making decisions.
- Physical symptoms: fatigue, unexplained aches, or neglect of personal hygiene.
- Verbal cues: expressing hopelessness, feeling like a burden, or talking about death or suicide.
For children and young people, signs might also include sudden academic decline, clinginess, or aggressive behaviour.
How to Start the Conversation
Approach gently and without judgment. You don’t need to have all the answers—just being there matters.
- Choose the right moment: somewhere private and calm, without distractions.
- Use open-ended questions: “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a bit down lately—how are you really feeling?”
- Reflect and validate: “That sounds really tough. I’m glad you told me.”
- Avoid clichés: steer clear of “cheer up” or “others have it worse.” Instead, offer empathy: “I can see this is really affecting you.”
Let them know you’re there to listen, not to fix. Sometimes just knowing someone cares is the first step toward healing.
Encouraging Them to Get Help
It’s okay if they’re not ready right away. Here’s how you can support them:
- Normalise help-seeking: “Talking to someone helped me when I was struggling too.”
- Offer practical support: help them find services, go with them to appointments, or sit with them while they make a call.
- Be patient: change takes time. Keep checking in, even if they don’t open up right away.
- Empower, don’t pressure: ask what they feel ready for and respect their pace.
When someone we deeply care about is struggling but not yet ready to seek help, you can request an appointment and a therapist can help you discover ways to support them—while also taking care of your own well-being.
We’re a directory of private therapists—some of whom may offer reduced rates. But if cost is a concern or private therapy isn’t the right fit for you at the moment, we have linked other places that offer free resources, counselling and support.
Contact us…
If you would like a brief call with the therapist, need a concession or would like to ask any questions before booking email us at info@harleystreet-practitioners.co.uk or call 020 8962 6247