Support Resources and Community Mental Health
JOAAL signposts to trustworthy services and resources while recognising that people’s needs, identities, and circumstances differ.
Seeking Help: Where to Start
Reaching out for support can feel daunting, especially if you have had unhelpful experiences in the past. You deserve to be treated with respect and to be taken seriously. The options below are a starting point and may vary depending on where you live.
Broad pathways to support
- Speaking with a GP or primary care professional
- Accessing NHS or community mental health services
- Contacting helplines for confidential listening and guidance
- Engaging with local peer support or community groups
- Exploring workplace or educational support schemes
This page does not list every possible service or organisation, and it is not a crisis support page. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact the relevant emergency services.
Types of Resources You Might Find Helpful
People’s needs vary, so we encourage a mix of options where possible. Combining professional, community, and self-directed resources can create a more stable support network.
Examples include
- Information hubs on stress, anxiety, low mood, and trauma
- Guides on talking to a GP or loved one about mental health
- Workbooks, podcasts, and webinars focused on coping strategies
- Peer-led spaces where experiences are shared respectfully
Using Online Resources Safely
Online resources can be empowering, but they can also be overwhelming or misleading. We encourage a cautious, reflective approach when interpreting mental health content on the internet.
Questions to ask yourself
- “Who created this resource and what is their expertise or experience?”
- “Does it acknowledge uncertainty and encourage professional support when needed?”
- “Does it use respectful, non-shaming language?”
- “Does it make promises that sound too good to be true?”
We encourage you to check the date and source of any resource, and to discuss any significant decisions with a qualified professional.