A GP provides a safe space for a young person to talk about how they are feeling. They will provide support and information about different mental health conditions, prescribe treatments such as counselling or medication, and possibly make a referral to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

Most schools have nurses, counsellors or teachers who are trained to offer support to pupils experiencing mental health problems. Ask a teacher if you are unsure of the help available.

• Anna Freud Youth Wellbeing Directory – an extensive list of local organisations.
• Barnardo’s - protects and supports the UK’s most vulnerable children. They provide various to help and support children, young people, parents and carers.
• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) - runs a free, confidential helpline and webchat service offering help and advice to anyone feeling down or in need of support.
• ChildLine - a free, confidential service where children can talk about any issue they’re going through. You can call their helpline or use their webchat to speak to a trained counsellor. Call 0800 1111
• The Children’s Society - supports children going through serious life challenges. They run services and campaigns to make children’s lives better.
• Contact - offer advice and support to families with disabled children. If you’re a parent caring for a disabled child, you can arrange to speak to an adviser for practical and emotional support.
• Extern – Confidential health and wellbeing service for young people aged 11-25 years.
• Family Lives - offers information and support on all aspects of family life, including the stages of child development, issues with schools, parenting support, bullying and mental health concerns.
• Lifeline - offers 24 hour telephone support for those in distress or despair. Call 0808 808 8000
• Papyrus - supports people under 35 who have thoughts of suicide and others who are concerned about them. You can contact them by phone, text or email.
• PIPS - help individuals, families and organisations who have been affected by suicide or mental unwellness
• Shout - you can text Shout on 85258 for confidential support by text.
• The Mix - offers free emotional support to people under 25 by phone, webchat or email. They also offer a short-term counselling service.
• YoungMinds - offers information and support to young people about their mental health, and helps adults to support the young people in their lives. If you’re a parent worried about a child’s mental health, you can call their helpline.