Guide to getting support

Jenny and her son Zac have faced an uphill battle.

Zac struggled with drug abuse during his teenage years, which deeply affected both his and Jenny’s lives. Even now, Zac continues to face challenges with his mental health. But through determination, support, and understanding, Jenny and Zac have found pathways to healing and hope. Their story shows that no matter how difficult things may seem, reaching out for help can make all the difference.

This guide is designed to help young people like Zac—and their families—navigate the journey toward better mental health and recovery. Whether you’re unsure of where to start or feeling overwhelmed, we’re here to guide you step by step.

Recognising When You Need Support

It’s okay not to feel okay. Recognising when you need help is the first step. Ask yourself:

Do you often feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed?
Are you struggling to keep up with school, work, or relationships?
Are you turning to harmful behaviours, like self-harm or substance use, to cope?

If you answered yes to any of these, reaching out for support is a positive and brave step toward feeling better.

Who to Turn To for Support

Support can come from many places. You don’t have to face your challenges alone. Here are some people and services you can reach out to:

Trusted Adults: A parent, teacher, school counsellor, or relative who you feel safe talking to.
Friends: Sometimes just talking to a friend about what’s going on can be a great relief.
Support Services: Organisations like YoungMinds, The Mix, or local mental health charities can provide advice and guidance.
GP or Healthcare Professional: Your doctor can connect you to mental health services, like therapy or counselling.

What Happens When You Ask for Help?

Asking for help can feel scary, but it’s a brave and important step. Here’s what you can expect:

Talking it Through: The first step might involve explaining how you feel and what’s been happening to someone you trust.
Exploring Options: Whether it’s speaking to a counsellor, joining a support group, or finding other services, you’ll work together to find what’s right for you.
Building a Plan: Many professionals will help you create a plan to move forward, with small, achievable steps to help you feel better.

How to Reach Out for Help

If you’re unsure how to start the conversation, here are some ways to break the ice:

Write It Down: If you find it hard to talk, try writing a note or message explaining how you feel.
Use Examples: Describe specific situations, like “I’ve been feeling really anxious before school,” to help them understand.
Start Small: Simply saying, “I need some help” or “I don’t feel like myself” can open the door to a conversation.

Support for Specific Challenges

Mental Health Struggles: If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions, organisations like YoungMinds and Mind can offer specialised resources.
Substance Use and Addiction: If you’re struggling with drug or alcohol use, reach out to services like FRANK or your local drug and alcohol support charity.
Self-Harm: Organisations like Self-Injury Support provide confidential help for those struggling with self-harm.

Remember: You Are Not Alone

Jenny and Zac’s story is just one example of how support can make a difference. There is no shame in asking for help. The journey may not always be easy, but taking the first step toward support is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

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