Further support
As well as making an appointment with your GP, below are some other ways you can access support.
- Your employer may provide access to an employee assistance programme (EAP) which may include some free counselling sessions. You can usually access this service without needing to go through your manager or HR. If you have an occupational health provider in place, they too may offer access to counselling support.
- You can self-refer into NHS Talking Therapies for free talking therapy support if you’re struggling with anxiety or depression without a referral from a GP. Go to the online NHS talking therapies service finder, and use it to find and contact your local service. Within a few weeks someone from the service should contact you to do an assessment.
- You can also access talking therapy privately, offered outside of the NHS, which you would pay for. General directories include: The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and Counselling Directory.
Helplines and emotional support are available through charities and organisations. Some examples include:
- Shout – Text “Shout” to 85258 for free, 24/7, confidential support.
- Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – You can call their helpline on 0800 58 58 58, lines are open 5pm – midnight everyday. LiveChat and WhatsApp are also available.
- Samaritans – Call 116 123 for free, 24/7, confidential emotional support.
WPW0338 This content was published October 2025.
