Overview
Talking is important for every one of us. It helps us stay healthy and can help to stop our problems from getting on top of us. Some people don’t like to talk too much but it can still be helpful for everyone. Many people find talking to others helps to sort through their thoughts and clarify whatever is going on for them at the time.
You might be struggling and looking for strategies to help you cope. Sometimes you just need to talk to someone who understands the extra challenges you face and who can point you in the right direction to get the support you need for your family.
There are lots of ways that you can find someone to talk to include:
- Helplines which can be text or phone lines
- Services which provide one-to-one sessions or group sessions
- Support groups online via social media platforms
- Face to Face support groups
Below are some services that may help.
It is not unusual for people to try different services until they find one that works for them. So, it’s worth trying a few different options until you find what works for you.
For children and young people
- TellMi – anonymous app where you can talk about absolutely anything
- Kooth – an online counselling service to children and young people aged 11-18 years, or 25 if you have additional needs
- The Space – a counselling service to children and young people aged 9-17 years. This is usually undertaken via face to face but we also offer telephone or on-line counselling.
- Somerset’s Big Tent – positive activities, therapeutic services and specialist support
- Youth Matters Peer Support Groups – peer group
- Mindline – helpline
- Childline – helpline
For adults
- Mindline – helpline
- Contact Listening Ear – helpline
- Samaritans – helpline
- NHS Talking Therapies – short term treatment in groups or individual, by telephone or video or in person