Self-Help and Emotional Support while on a mental health waiting list

Taking the first steps to access support are really important; whether this was by speaking to a trusted individual such as a teacher or your doctor who made a referral on your behalf, or by speaking directly to a mental health service to make a referral. After the initial referral there can often be a wait before your support begins with the service. Waiting times can vary from service to service depending on how many people are accessing support at that time, and the type of support which is most appropriate for you.

When you hear that you have been placed on a waiting list you might feel lots of different feelings from overwhelming to disappointment and that is normal. A common feeling we have heard people experience is feeling lost and unsure of what can be done to help while you are on the waiting list.

So, we have brought together lots of useful self-help resources which you can use while you are waiting which can help to manage your mental health but we also have a number of organisations who can offer you emotional support at this time too. Although you may be waiting for support with one service, you are not alone and there are people and services out there who can help you at this time.