If you need help right now

The Coronavirus outbreak has seen life change for us all over the past few months. You may understandably feel worried, frightened or helpless about the current ever changing situation. It's important to remember that it's OK to have these feelings, and that everyone reacts differently. This situation is temporary and, for most of us, these difficult feelings will pass.

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as protecting our physical health. Especially during this difficult time, when we're having to spend more time at home - perhaps isolated from the friends, family and other relationships that we know are vital to keeping ourselves mentally healthy. It may also be harder for us do the things that normally keep us well.

The good news is that there are many simple things we can still all do to take care of our mental health and wellbeing. In this section you can find useful information, resources and support to help yourself and others.

If you need help right now:

• If you, or someone you know is struggling, then you should seek the advice and support of your GP.

• If you need urgent health advice out of hours when your GP practice is closed, call NHS 24 on 111 (available anytime, 24/7)

• If you, or someone you know needs URGENT HELP, phone the emergency services on 999.

• If you need to talk to someone, you can contact our Employee Assistance Provider, Workplace Options free on: 0800 247 1100.  LGBT helpline: 0800 138 8725. BME helpline: 0800 288 4950 (available 24/7)

• You can also call the Samaritans free on 116 123 (available 24/7), or click here to find out other ways of getting in touch.

• Or call Breathing Space free on 0800 83 85 87 (6pm to 2am on weekdays, 24 hours at the weekends).

• A Health and Social Care Workforce Wellbeing helpline offers access to mental health support 24 hours a day, seven days a week and complements the support already offered through the National Wellbeing Hub. Phone 0800 111 4191.