Everyone gets down now and again and this can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming and impossible.

For most of us, this will pass if we do some simple things, even though we might not feel up to it.

The symptoms of depression can be complex and vary widely between people. As a general rule, if you are depressed, you feel:

  • sad
  • hopeless
  • lose interest in things you used to enjoy.

It's important you take this seriously and seek help. You can find a list of possible symptoms and assess your mood through the NHS webpage concernings conditions of stress, anxiety and depression 

Every Mind Matters

Every Mind Matters has resources to help you cope with both stress and anxiety. You can build Your Mind Plan by answering five questions in an interactive quiz.

NHS audio guides

A series of mental wellbeing NHS audio guides to help you boost your mood. You can listen to them privately, in your own time, to help you through feelings such as anxiety or a low mood.

Reading Well – mental health

Reading Well for mental health provides helpful information and support for managing common mental health conditions or dealing with difficult feelings and experiences. 

Books are available to borrow from your local library. Selected titles are also available to borrow as e-books and audiobooks.

More information is also available on Medway Council or Kent County Council websites, depending on where you live.

live well logo, 'live well Kent, community wellbeingLive Well Kent 

Live Well Kent offers support with keeping active and healthy and everyday living.

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NHS Talking Therapies 

If you are struggling with anxiety and/or depression, NHS talking are a free, effective and confidential way to treat common mental health issues. 

We Listen has an interactive map, which shows NHS talking therapies in different parts of Kent and Medway.

You can refer yourself to NHS talking therapies by contacting the services available in your area as shown on the map or via NHS Talking Therapies. Alternatively, you can ask your GP to refer you.

Mental Health Matters process REG.png ​​​​​​Kent and Medway Safe Havens

Safe Havens offer face-to-face mental health support for those living in Kent and Medway and offer an open-door policy for anyone needing help who is known, or not known to mental health services. 

 

Text KENT or MEDWAY to 85258 or phone 0800 107 0160 for free confidential support at any time.

Free expert advice from trained counsellors is available for every mental health concern.

Visit Release the Pressure website and watch the video to find out more.

 

Better Health-Every Mind Matters has launched a campaign to support the nation’s mental wellbeing. At the heart of the campaign is the free, NHS-approved Mind Plan.

By answering five simple questions online, adults will get a personalised mental health action plan with practical tips for helping deal with stress and anxiety, boost their mood, sleep better, and feel more in control.

Search Every Mind Matters to see what works for you.

Email Jo at the Samaritans or phone 116 123. For more information, visit the Samaritans website.

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Urgent mental health support, advice and guidance for Kent and Medway residents

Over 18: Phone the 24-hour helpline on 0800 783 9111. 

Under 18: Phone the 24-hour Single Point of Access on 0800 011 3474 (select option one, then option three)

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