It can be really useful to talk to a friend, relative or adult you trust. This may seem difficult, but it’s the best way to start moving forwards. For advice on starting these conversations visit Ditch the Label.

For advice about a specific feeling or problem, visit our Common Issue pages, which look at topics including self harm, bullying and feeling stressed, and could help you find the support you need.

Your GP can also provide professional help and guidance about the way you’re feeling and what support is available.

Childline provide a confidential helpline where you can talk to counsellors about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Call Childline free on 0800 1111 or get in touch online. It’s confidential and you don’t have to give your name if you don’t want to.

Kooth is a free online counselling, advice and support service available for children and young people in North Yorkshire aged 11-18.

BUZZ US is a text messaging service for young people aged 11-18 experiencing mental health and wellbeing difficulties.

You can text BUZZ US on 07520 631168 about any mental health or wellbeing concerns such as  bullying, anxiety, self esteem, eating problems, low mood or stress. You will receive support from a Wellbeing Worker within 1 working day.

There is lots of support available within schools and colleges. From school based counsellors to school nurses and Compass BUZZ.

To find out more visit our Getting help from your school or college page.

The Healthy Child Team is a service for 5-19 year olds experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties, providing short term 1:1 support.

The 5-19 Healthy Child Team comprises specialist community public health nurses, healthy child practitioners, assistant practitioners, screening technicians and administrators. They have a named nurse linked to each GP practice in the localities in which they work.

For more information on the service visit the Healthy Child Team website or call 01609 780780 between the hours of 8am-5.30pm, Monday-Friday.

Compass REACH is a confidential service for 9-19 year olds in North Yorkshire who need support with issues related to drugs, alcohol, mental health and/or sexual health.

They are a a small team of qualified nurses and practitioners who are there to support young people aged 9 to 19 (or up to 25 years old if you have special educational needs or disabilities) to lead happier, healthier lives.

The  service is free, confidential and voluntary – plus they will meet you somewhere that you feel comfortable and safe.

For more information on the service visit the Compass REACH website or call 01609 777 662 or the freephone number 0800 008 7452.

Specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) is a specialist service for children and young people up to the age of 18 experiencing mental health issues that are significantly affecting their daily lives.

If you live in the Craven area of North Yorkshire, the CAMHS service is provided by Bradford District Care Trust (BDCT).

If you live anywhere else in North Yorkshire, the CAMHS service is provided by Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV).

You can find more information about how to access the service on our page About Specialist CAMHS in North Yorkshire.

If you’ve injured yourself or taken an overdose, please dial 999 or get immediate medical advice from NHS 111. 

If you’re in a mental health emergency, call the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust single point of access telephone number: 0300 0200317

This is an all age, single point of access telephone number available 24/7 for those living in County Durham and Darlington, Teesside and North Yorkshire and York.

Also visit our Urgent Help page for more information.

You may choose to seek support through the private or voluntary sector but it can be hard to know where to start.

The charity Mind have produced a leaflet on talking therapy and counselling.

Young Minds also provide some information on counselling services for children and young people.