Starlight Cottage  is an organisation dedicated to encouraging people to actively seek joy. However, it also recognises the devastation which can be caused by mental illness. It is NOT something to be ashamed of. It is NOT something to ignore. It is NOT something which has to define you. Below are some resources which might be helpful. Start off with your GP if you can, tell family and friends who you trust that you think you will need their extra support, and if the NHS isn't being proactive enough, reach out to the many wonderful charities and support services which are available.

If you are involved in an organisation you would like me to add to this list, please feel free to get in touch via the contact page.

Mental health charities, groups and services

Mental Health Foundation
020 7803 1101
Improving the lives of those with mental health problems or learning difficulties.

Together
020 7780 7300
Supports people through mental health services.

The Centre for Mental Health
020 7827 8300
Working to improve the quality of life for people with mental health problems.

Depression Alliance
0845 123 2320
Provides information and support to those who are affected by depression via publications, supporter services and a network of self-help groups.

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
01455 883300
Through the BACP you can find out more about counselling services in your area.

Drug Rehab's Webpage on Co-occurring Disorders
 Drugrehab.com is a free web resource and it includes digital media tools such as podcasts, medically reviewed guides, user made video stories, E-books and more. They focus on education and work to de-stigmatize addiction and mental health issues. This link takes you to their webpage on co-occurring disorders.

PANDAS Foundation
0843 28 98 401 (every day from 9am-8pm)
PANDAS Foundation vision is to support every individual with pre (antenatal), postnatal depression or postnatal psychosis in England, Wales and Scotland. We campaign to raise awareness and remove the stigma. We provide our PANDAS Help Line, Support Groups offer online advice to all and much more.

General advice and support

Citizens Advice
Gives free confidential information and advice to help people sort out their money, legal, consumer and other problems.
Support for children and young people

Young Minds
020 7336 8445
Provides information and advice for anyone with concerns about the mental health of a child or young person.

Childline
0800 1111
Free, national helpline for children and young people in trouble or danger.

Nightline
Listening, support and information service run by students for students.
Other places you could go for support

Age Concern
0800 009966
Infoline on issues relating to older people.

Lesbian and Gay Switchboard
020 7837 7324
Provides information, support and referral services.

Refugee Council
020 7346 6700
The UK’s largest organisation working with refugees and asylum seekers.

Relate
0300 100 1234
Offers advice, relationship counselling, workshops, mediation, consultations and support.

Counselling Directory
A free, confidential directory of trained, professional counsellors and therapists in the UK.

Teacher Support Network
08000 562 561
A 24/7 telephone support line which gives teachers access to professional coaches and counsellors 365 days a year. The network also campaigns for change within schools and education policy in order to improve the wellbeing, mental and physical health of teachers.

Anxiety UK
08444 775 774
Works to relieve and support those living with anxiety disorders by providing information, support and understanding via an extensive range of services, including 1:1 therapy.

Carers Organisations

Carers UK
Carers UK is the voice of carers.  It improves their lives by providing information, advice, support and by campaigning for change.

Crossroads Care
Crossroads Care is Britain’s leading provider of support for carers and the people they care for.

Other Resources which have been recommended

Click on each item to read. Many thanks to clients and users of this website who have recommended these resources.