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Mental health & psychiatry

Carers

MyApp: My Mental Health
NHS GGC

In a crisis or need urgent help? 

If things feel overwhelming or you're worried about someone else, here’s what you can do: 

  • Call NHS 24 on 111  Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for urgent mental health support and advice. 
  • Talk to your GP Your GP is a great first point of contact. They can listen, offer guidance, and refer you to local Mental Health Services if needed. 
  • If you feel you are in immediate danger, please call 999 for assistance.

Remember: 

Reaching out is a sign of strength. Whether you're looking for a little guidance or urgent help, there are people ready to listen and support you. 

Are you providing regular help to a partner, neighbour, relative or friend who is experiencing mental health issues and could not manage otherwise?

Maybe you don’t think of yourself as a carer – few people do – however to a degree we are all carers. We lend a hand if someone asks us to help out but when ill health strikes, particularly mental ill health, you can feel that your whole world has been turned upside down. It can be complex, challenging, even difficult at times. Families and carers play a key role in the recovery of those with mental health problems and are entitled to help and support. With appropriate advice, information, resolve and determination, you can play an invaluable role in helping someone recover from their difficulties.

Here are some hints and suggestions that were put together by fellow carers;

  • It’s okay to ask for help
  • Learning and getting the right information is essential
  • Take time out for yourself
  • It’s okay to be upset and emotional
  • Talking to someone who can understand and empathise with your situation can really help
  • Use support groups
  • Find out how others cope
  • Focus on positive things
  • Share your view with service providers – having your voice heard can be empowering

For further information about supports in your area please see the links below, for local and national resources.

National Resources

UK 

https://carersdigital.org/login/index.php

Scotland

www.carersuk.org/scotland  

Courses

SilverCloud is a website with courses you can do to improve your mental wellbeing. You can learn new ways to deal with the challenges you’re facing. It’s designed by clinical experts, and supported by the NHS and Scottish Government.

SilverCloud is:

  • secure
  • supportive
  • free from stigma
  • flexible so you can do a course at your own pace

SilverCloud is free, use the code Scotland2020 and an email address to sign up. 

SilverCloud courses relevant to Carers include:

Space from Challenging Times – This programme will help you manage your mental health during times of crisis. You will explore ways to cope with unpleasant emotions, empower yourself with practical tools and strategies to cope, and find helpful ways to adjust to your new reality and deal with loss.

Supporting an Anxious Teen - This programme will guide you in supporting a teenager (aged 12 - 18) who is dealing with worry and anxiety. Help a teenager to learn skills that will enable them to identify their anxiety, and then gradually start to face anxiety-provoking situations.

Supporting an Anxious Child - This programme will guide you in supporting a child (aged 5 - 11) who is dealing with worry and anxiety. Help a child to learn skills that will enable them to identify their anxiety, and then gradually start to face anxiety-provoking situations.

Supporting a Child with ADHD – This programme will guide you in supporting a child (aged 6-12) who has been diagnosed with ADHD. Learn about ADHD and the associated strengths and challenges.

Self-Management Toolkit - This programme is designed to help you to become an optimal self-manager. It teaches you important skills and tools that you will need during periods of change and uncertainty, including problem-solving and goal setting.

Local Resources

 

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 08/04/2025

Next review date: 08/04/2026

Author(s): NHSGGC MH Supported Self-Management App Editorial Group .

Approved By: NHSGGC MH Supported Self-Management App Editorial Group

Reviewer name(s): NHSGGC MH Supported Self-Management App Editorial Group .