NHS Mental Health Support in the UK (2025): How to Access Help, Self-Referral & What to Expect
If you’re in immediate danger: Call 999 (or 112) now.
If you need to talk now: Samaritans 116 123 (24/7). Shout text 85258 (24/7).
Find your local urgent NHS mental health helpline: nhs.uk/urgentmentalhealth
Many migrants feel lost navigating UK mental health care. This guide explains how to access support quickly, with or without a GP.
Quick Ways to Get Help
- NHS Talking Therapies (self-referral): anxiety, low mood, panic, PTSD, OCD.
- GP: assessment, medication review, referrals.
- Urgent helplines / crisis lines: immediate support, safety planning.
- Community & charities: peer groups, counselling, multilingual support.
What Each Route Is For (at a glance)
| Route | Use cases | Access |
|---|---|---|
| NHS Talking Therapies | Anxiety, depression, stress | Self-referral form |
| GP | Assessment, meds, referrals | Register + book appointment |
| Urgent helpline | Suicidal thoughts, crisis | 24/7 phone |
| A&E / 999 | Immediate danger | Emergency services |
Step-by-Step: Self-Refer to NHS Talking Therapies
- Find your local service (search “NHS Talking Therapies + your area”).
- Complete the form (basic details, preferred language).
- Telephone triage (brief questions; choose times).
- First appointment (assessment; agree a plan).
- Treatment (guided self-help, CBT, groups, culturally aware options).
Language support: Ask for interpreting or therapy in Italian if available; some services offer bilingual practitioners or interpreters.
If You Don’t Have a GP Yet
You can still access Talking Therapies via self-referral.
Register with a GP here: NHS GP registration
What “Good Care” Looks Like
- Clear explanation of options.
- Agreed goals (sleep, panic, mood).
- Regular check-ins, tools for between sessions.
- Respect for culture and language.
Useful Links
- NHS urgent helpline: nhs.uk/urgentmentalhealth
- Find a GP: nhs.uk/gps
- Samaritans: samaritans.org — 116 123
- Shout text: giveusashout.org — text 85258
- Mind (info): mind.org.uk
FAQs
Is Talking Therapies only for depression/anxiety?
It also helps with panic, trauma, OCD, health anxiety, worry.
Can I ask for a female/male therapist?
Yes — you can state your preference when booking.
Will therapy affect my immigration status?
No — clinical care is confidential and will not affect your immigration status.
Want help filling self-referral forms or preparing for your first call?
Mental Health Support →