Just like our physical health, our mental health can change constantly and is affected by what is happening around us. Mental health problems are common and can happen to anybody. Around 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem this year and a quarter of people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their life. In County Durham over 51,000 adults have depression and 1 in 10 of our children have a diagnosed mental health disorder. Although mental ill health can happen to any of us, there are many ways we can support our own mental health to try and stay mentally well.
If you’re looking for ways to improve your own mental health and wellbeing, these resources can help.
How to get help with your mental health
There are a variety of mental health and wellbeing support options available for people in County Durham. See NHS – What mental health support is available to me? for more information.
You can also find advice on where to get help from the Mental health support for adults page on the Durham County Council website.
How to get urgent help if you are in a mental health crisis
There is a freephone crisis line available 24 hours a day for those in mental distress. In a mental health emergency call 0800 0516 171 for your local crisis service.
Looking after a child or young person who has emotional or mental health problems
Find out where to get help for a child or young person who needs support with their mental health at NHS – Mental health support for children and young people. It includes:
- Children and young people’s mental health services
- How you can get support
- Get support from mental health charities
- Supporting a child or young person
- Get urgent help
You can also find support on Mental health support for children, young people and families on the Durham County Council website.