Mental Health
Mental health is about how we think, feel and behave. One in four people in the UK have a mental health problem at some point in their lives, which affects their daily life, relationships or physical health.
Mental health disorders take many different forms and affect people in different ways. Schizophrenia, depression and personality disorders are all examples of mental health problems. Diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia generally develop in old age, whereas eating disorders are more common in young people.
Breathing Space
Sometimes our thoughts and feelings can overwhelm us. it helps to get some Breathing Space. Information and support is available over the age of 16 in Scotland who is feeling low, anxious or depressed by calling: 0800 83 85 87 or visit https://breathingspace.scot/
The Bounds
Free counselling service provided by the person-centred counselling programme at the University of Aberdeen. The aim is to provide a freely available counselling service which enhances the wellbeing of the local community and promotes belief in human potential.
You may self-refer by email, through a GP or other professional. They will then contact you to arrange an assessment appointment and provide further information about the service.
Please visit www.abdn.ac.uk/the-bounds further further information and appointment booking details.
The Bounds Counselling and Research Centre
Kooth(aged 10-18 years) Free Online Counselling & Emotional Well-being Support Service
Kooth is a service for children and young people aged 10-18 years (up to 19th birthday) that offers free online counselling and emotional well-being support. It provides a safe and secure means of accessing support from a team of qualified professionals, as well as providing access to many self-help tools and content. To access register using this link www.kooth.com.
For further information visit www.kooth.com/video
Togetherall Support for Young People & Adults Aged 16 years Upwards
Togetherall is an anonymous, safe, online, peer-to-peer mental health community and self-help support for young people and adults aged 16 years and upwards. Trained accedited professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; any adult who may be struggling can choose from a range of safe therapeutic services at a time that best suits them. This service can be accessed at togetherall.com, creating a completely anonymous user account.
For further information visit: Togetherall Interactive PDF
Togetherall Online Courses: Courses Overview
Samaritans
If you need someone to talk to, the Samaritans will listen and won't judge or tell you what to do. Whatever you're going through the Samaritans will face it with you, with contact available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Call free on 116 123 or visit https://www.samaritans.org/scotland/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
Adult Autism Assessment Team (City & Shire)
The Adult Autism Assessment Team (AAAT) for Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire started in January 2021. The team wish to be as accessible as possible and are now open for referrals using the following form (you can still be referred by another person if this is easier for you, using the same form):
Adult Autism Assessment Team (City, Shire & Moray H&SCP) – Hi-Net Grampian (scot.nhs.uk)
On receipt of referral the team will make contact to offer a short triage appointment (30 minutes) to give you further information about the assessment process.
Alzheimer's Society - Diagnosis interview with Terry Pratchett
The Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with dementia and their carers.
They provide further information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care on the Alzheimer's Society Video Site
Mental Health Wellbeing Podcasts
You can subscribe to wellbeing podcasts on the Mental Health Foundation Website.
The website of the Mental Health Foundation outlines the charity’s work in research, policy, service development and service user involvement. The site offers information and publications to download on research, good practice in services and on mental health problems and key issues.
Useful Links
Hope Counselling
HOPE counselling provides a high quality and affordable counselling service for Aberdeen and surrounding areas.
We counsel adults and young people aged 16 years and above.
Easily accessible city centre location, with parking and disabled access. Appointments also available in The Kirk Centre Ellon.
Currently minimal waiting lists.
While the ethos of HOPE lies within the Christian tradition, our service is available to those of any faith and none. We offer the opportunity to explore issues from the perspective of Christianity for those who specifically request it.
We believe we can help people find hope in even the most difficult of circumstances.
Alzheimer’s Society
Comprehensive information for people with all forms of dementia. Alzheimer's Society is a membership organisation, which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Alzheimer Scotland
Alzheimer Scotland provides a wide range of specialist services for people with dementia and their carers. We offer personalised support services, community activities, information and advice, at every stage of the dementia journey
Mental Health Foundation
Founded in 1949, the Mental Health Foundation is a leading UK charity that provides information, carries out research, campaigns and works to improve services for anyone affected by mental health problems, whatever their age and wherever they live.
Anorexia & Bulimia Care
ABC is a national UK eating disorders organisation with over 30 years of experience, passionate about people and recovery.
Providing on-going care, emotional support and practical guidance for anyone affected by eating disorders and eating distress.
http://www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk/
Tel: 03000 111213 option 1 for self or option 2 for concerned family/friends
Email: support@anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
These links all come from trusted resources but if you are unsure about these or any other medical matters please contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.