There are little things we can all do to lift our mood or ease our anxiety – we need to find what works for us.

This could be as simple as taking a walk in nature, prioritising our sleep or opening up to a friend. Our little thing, if we keep doing it, will make a big difference to how we feel.
Life can be tough and we all have our ups and downs. But what do you do if you or someone you know is really struggling? It’s not always easy to know where to start and it’s important to get help.

Reaching out for support from family, friends or professionals can make a huge difference, including, in some cases, preventing self-harm or suicide. Many older people find it very difficult to discuss their mental health but there is still a significant need.

For immediate help
If your life – or someone else’s life – is in immediate danger, please call 999 or go to A&E.

For same or next day help
You can get help with your mental health in different ways depending on what you prefer. All services are free.

● Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option (also known as the Sussex Mental Healthline) or the Samaritans on 116 123 (both available 24/7)

● Visit a Staying Well service (out-of-hours mental health crisis support service for people aged 18+ available in Crawley and Worthing.)

● Text the word SUSSEX to 85258 (24/7 mental health text-messaging support service).

● Download the Stay Alive app – a suicide prevention resource full of useful information and tools to help you stay safe in crisis.

NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression

If you live in Sussex, are over 18 and are struggling with common mental health problems such as feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), you can refer yourself to your NHS Talking Therapies West Sussex: www.westsussextalkingtherapies.nhs.uk
Services are free, confidential and provide a wide range of support, including courses, online programmes, and one-to-one sessions. They aim to help you understand your symptoms and take practical steps to improve your mental health.
NHS Talking Therapies is unable to provide urgent mental health help or support to people experiencing more severe difficulties with their mental health. Instead, please see a GP who can refer you to the appropriate service.