3 Types of Help for Mental Disorders You Should Know
May, 8 2025
The idea of asking for help with mental health is way more common than people admit. If you or someone you care about is struggling, you're definitely not alone. Every single year in the UK, mental health charities report that millions reach out for support. That's not just a number—those are real people, just like you, doing something good for themselves.
There isn't just one way to get help, either. If one thing doesn't feel right, there are other options—no need to force yourself into something that doesn't fit. We'll look at the three main types of support most people turn to: professional therapy and counseling, helplines for urgent help, and good old peer support groups where you can talk things through at your own pace. Each type serves a slightly different purpose, so it's worth knowing what’s out there.
- Professional Therapy and Counseling
- Crisis Helplines and Immediate Support
- Peer Support and Community Groups
- Mental Health Charities: What They Do
- How to Find Help Right Now
- Tips for Supporting Yourself and Others
Professional Therapy and Counseling
Getting professional help for mental disorders can make a world of difference. Therapists, counsellors, and psychologists are trained to help people handle stuff like anxiety, depression, OCD, and loads of other issues. No shame in needing this kind of support—it's what they're there for.
The most common way people start is by seeing a GP, who can then recommend therapy or refer you to a mental health professional. There are loads of therapy styles, but some tried-and-tested methods include:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): Great for tackling negative thought patterns, super practical for depression and anxiety.
- Talking Therapies: Just straight-up conversations with a pro, where you can get your feelings out in a safe space.
- Medication Support: Sometimes mixed with therapy, especially for more serious conditions. GPs and psychiatrists handle this part.
Did you know NHS England reported in 2024 that over 1.8 million people got at least one session of talking therapy last year? You can also access therapy through charities like Mind or Anxiety UK, who often offer free or low-cost support if private fees are too much.
Here’s what usually happens when you sign up for therapy:
- You’ll get an initial appointment (in person, video, or phone).
- The therapist will ask about your history and what you’re struggling with.
- You work together in regular sessions, usually once a week or so.
Good to know: You don’t have to stick to your first therapist if you don’t click. Switching is totally normal—finding someone you feel safe with matters way more than fancy qualifications. If money’s tight, ask charities, your GP, or local mental health services about free options.
Bottom line: Don’t wait for things to get "bad enough." Therapy is for anyone who could use a hand managing tough feelings, not just people in crisis. It’s one of the main ways mental disorders can be tackled head-on.
Crisis Helplines and Immediate Support
When everything feels too much, a crisis helpline might be the fastest way to find help. These lines are there for anyone—no matter what you’re going through, day or night. You get someone trained on the other end, ready to listen and actually talk things through with you. You don’t have to give your real name or share anything you’re not ready for.
UK charities like Samaritans (116 123) take calls 24/7, no charge. There’s also SHOUT (text “SHOUT” to 85258) for people who feel more comfortable texting than speaking. If you're under 25, Childline (0800 1111) is another option. The people answering aren't there to judge—they’re there to help you make it through the moment.
Worried about privacy? These helplines keep things confidential. Their main job is to get you feeling safe and help you decide on your next step. They won’t call emergency services unless someone’s in immediate danger, and they’ll always let you know what’s going on.
The demand for crisis support is rising. In 2024, Samaritans took over 5 million calls—proof that loads of people need someone to talk to when things get tough.
| Helpline | How to Reach | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Samaritans | 116 123 (Phone) | 24/7 |
| SHOUT | Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 | 24/7 |
| Childline | 0800 1111 (Phone, Chat) | 24/7 |
If you’re ever in a crisis, these numbers matter. Save them in your phone—it takes a second and might just help you or a friend down the line. For the fastest response, pick the *mental disorders* helpline that fits how you want to communicate, whether that's by talking, texting, or typing online.
Peer Support and Community Groups
Sometimes the best kind of help doesn’t come from professionals, but from others who really get what you’re going through. That’s where peer support groups and community spaces step in. These aren’t just places to vent about your struggles—they create a sense of belonging and remind you that you’re not the only one facing these issues.
Charities like Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, and SANE are known for running peer support sessions all over the UK. These can be in-person meetups, weekly support circles, or even online forums where you chat with others at any hour. If showing up in person feels like too much, many groups meet on Zoom or run emotional support chats through WhatsApp or closed Facebook groups.
So what does a peer group actually look like? Usually, it’s just a handful of people in a no-pressure setting. There’s no therapist in the room, just peers sharing stories and tips. Some groups break into smaller circles focused on a particular experience, like living with anxiety, coping with depression, or supporting loved ones. This kind of support can help you feel heard and less ‘weird’ about what you’re dealing with. You pick up real-life tips from people who’ve been there.
Many people are surprised at just how helpful these groups can be. One recent survey by Mind found that over 80% of people who joined a community group felt more confident about managing their own wellbeing after just a month. That’s a big deal, especially if you’ve felt stuck or isolated for a while.
- Look for meetings on the websites of mental health charities or through local NHS pages.
- Try out more than one group if the first doesn’t feel right. It’s normal to need a few tries.
- Don’t stress—there’s no need to talk until you’re comfortable. Many people start by just listening.
It’s not just about sharing struggles, either. Peer groups often organize social events, workshops, or art therapy sessions. You learn coping skills, pick up resources, and sometimes even find new friends. Community help puts power back in your hands, which can feel huge when so much else feels out of control.
Mental Health Charities: What They Do
Mental health charities do a lot more than just put out information. They run support groups, offer therapy sessions for free or at low cost, and even help people in urgent situations. They make getting help less scary by breaking down steps, answering questions, and explaining things in plain English.
One thing most people don’t realize is how much these groups actually keep things moving behind the scenes. For many, the first call to a charity helpline is a real turning point—like Mind or Samaritans in the UK, who answer thousands of calls every single day without judgment.
If you’re not sure what these charities actually provide, here’s a basic breakdown:
- Free phone and text support—sometimes 24/7—when you’re in crisis
- One-on-one counseling or therapy (short-term, but often enough to get you back on your feet)
- Peer and group sessions so you can talk it out with people who get it
- Online resources for coping tips and answers about different mental health conditions
- Advocacy—helping you navigate healthcare systems, benefits, and rights at work
Here’s a quick look at the scope of what these organizations do in the UK:
| Charity | Number of People Supported (2024) | Key Service |
|---|---|---|
| Mind | Over 2 million | Counseling & Helplines |
| Samaritans | ~5 million calls | 24/7 Listening Service |
| Rethink Mental Illness | 500,000+ | Advocacy & Groups |
The cool part? They’re usually staffed by people who’ve been through mental health struggles themselves. So you’re more likely to get someone who “gets it,” without awkward silences or blank stares. Don’t hesitate to check out your local charity’s website for a list of what they offer, or swing by a drop-in event if that feels easier. A lot of mental health charities now also offer online chat and resources so you can get help even if leaving the house isn’t an option.
Charities fill in the gaps where traditional healthcare sometimes falls short. If professional therapy has a waitlist or costs too much, charities are a smart next step for real, human support.
Sometimes just knowing mental disorders don’t have to be handled alone makes all the difference. And that’s exactly the job these charities set out to do.
How to Find Help Right Now
If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, there are real people ready to talk—no judgment, no waiting weeks. The quickest way to get help is to call a crisis helpline. For example, in the UK, you can ring Samaritans on 116 123 at any time. They’re open 24/7, which means you never have to wonder if you’re bothering anyone. If you’re more comfortable texting, SHOUT lets you text "SHOUT" to 85258 for support. Both are totally free and confidential.
Don’t forget about your GP, either. More and more people are booking mental health appointments, so your doctor has likely heard it all before. You can ask for a phone appointment or even just mention your concerns at your next checkup. According to Mind, NHS England saw record numbers seeking talking therapies in 2024, which shows reaching out is normal.
“If you’re in crisis, getting help as soon as you can is key. You don’t have to go through it alone.” — Mind UK
Here’s a quick checklist if you need to find help right now:
- Mental disorders: Helplines like Samaritans (116 123) and SHOUT (text 85258) are always open.
- Talk to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or a colleague might help make the first call.
- Book a GP appointment if you want ongoing support or a referral to a therapist.
- For younger people, Childline (0800 1111) answers calls from anyone under 19.
- If you think you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or head to A&E—nobody will judge you.
Sometimes, it helps to see what services charities actually connect people to. Check out this breakdown from a recent survey in 2024:
| Support Type | % of Charity Users |
|---|---|
| Crisis Helplines | 45% |
| Counselling Referrals | 38% |
| Peer Support Groups | 17% |
If making a call feels too hard, most charities offer webchat or email options too. The key is to do something—sending a single text counts. Help is out there and it’s a lot easier to reach than people think.
Tips for Supporting Yourself and Others
If you’re battling a mental disorder, remember—it's normal to need support, and tons of people do. Small steps every day can make a lasting difference. You don’t have to overhaul your whole life at once.
Here’s what actually helps for many people:
- Mental disorders can feel overwhelming, so break things down. If getting out of bed feels hard, just focus on sitting up first, then standing, then that first glass of water. Tiny wins matter.
- Stick to a daily routine if you can. It gives a sense of control when your mind feels chaotic. Even simple tasks like brushing your teeth, changing clothes, or going for a walk help keep things steady.
- Try not to bottle things up. If talking to family or friends feels like too much, charities offer free text lines and chats. Mind and Samaritans in the UK get tens of thousands of messages a year from people needing just a little support in the moment.
- Take screen breaks. Nonstop social media scrolling can ramp up anxiety or depression. Give your mind a break—even for half an hour.
- Movement actually boosts your mood. No need for a gym membership—a brisk walk or dancing to music in your kitchen counts.
If you're supporting someone else, remember the basics: listen more than you talk. You don’t need all the answers. Sometimes, just being there is what matters most. Let them set the pace. If they don’t want to talk, just hanging out in silence is okay.
- Ask open questions: “How are you feeling today?” works better than “Are you okay?”
- Avoid trying to ‘fix’ things straight away. Instead, ask, “Is there something you’d like me to do?”
- Offer info about local charities (like Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, or Calm) if they want professional help. Most have simple search tools online for local groups or helplines.
If you’re ever worried someone’s in crisis (like talking about ending their life or seriously self-harming), don’t try to handle it alone. A&E, or one of the urgent helplines, are there for emergencies—never wait it out.
Here’s a quick look at what people find most helpful according to a 2024 UK mental health charity survey:
| Action | % of People Who Found it Helpful |
|---|---|
| Talking to someone (friend, family, helpline) | 73% |
| Establishing routines | 60% |
| Physical activity | 55% |
| Peer support groups | 38% |
The best thing you can do? Just reach out, and don’t underestimate the power of everyday kindness—to yourself or someone else. Mental health charities make a real difference by turning that support into something you can count on, no matter how tough things get.