Therapy sessions can prove enormously beneficial for people dealing with ongoing low mood, anxiety, and other mental health issues. But were you aware that free NHS sessions are available in England?

Engaging in therapy sessions can offer significant advantages for individuals grappling with persistent low mood, anxiety, and various mental health challenges. Yet, many might not realize that in England, the NHS provides these sessions at no cost.

The Express delves into how individuals can easily self-refer online for the NHS ‘talking therapies’ service or arrange it through a GP practice. Contrary to common belief, a formal mental health diagnosis is not a prerequisite for accessing therapy for issues such as depression and anxiety.

Who can self-refer online to use NHS talking therapies?

For those in need of immediate emotional support, the Samaritans offer a 24-hour helpline at 116 123. You can also reach out via email at jo@samaritans.org, visit a local Samaritans branch, or explore their resources online for additional assistance.

Eligible individuals can self-refer to an NHS talking therapy service by visiting the NHS website. This service is available to residents of England who are 18 or older, although in some areas, it is accessible to those aged 16 and 17 as well.

For those 17 and younger, there is support available through children and young people’s mental health services. While these NHS talking therapies primarily address anxiety and depression, a specific mental health diagnosis is not necessary to benefit from them.

• Have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Often feel very anxious about lots of different things
• Have a persistent low mood
• Worry constantly about your health
• Have body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
• Have panic attacks
• Have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Fear social situations
• Have an overwhelming fear of something (phobias), including agoraphobia
• Have a long-term health condition, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, and are struggling with anxiety or depression as a result

The NHS suggests that therapy might be particularly helpful if you find yourself dealing with specific challenges. Consider exploring these resources to better manage your mental health and well-being.

How to self-refer through a GP surgery

While patients can self-refer to NHS talking therapies online, they can also ask their GP to make the referral on their behalf. This could be particularly beneficial for anyone struggling with their mental health but is uncertain whether therapy is the right choice for them.

Occasionally, it is also possible to make an online referral without being registered with a GP. However, this largely depends on the area – more information on NHS talking therapies is available here.

Government agency issues alert over mental health apps

Last month, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued fresh guidance concerning the use of digital platforms for well-being concerns. This is especially pertinent for people using symptom-tracking apps, virtual reality therapies, and other mental health platforms, particularly those lacking endorsement from the NHS and other healthcare bodies.

The UK Government agency encouraged Brits to consider several important questions about their chosen platform, including whether it is trustworthy and safe for use. It also advised people to exercise caution with products making ‘big promises without clear supporting information’.

In a statement, MHRA Chair and professor of primary care at the University of Oxford, Professor Anthony Harnden, said: “When someone turns to a tool to help with their mental health, they need to know it is safe, effective, and built on reliable evidence.

“Our aim is to give people clear, practical advice they can use in everyday life, so they understand what good looks like and when to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

“As a GP, I’ve seen how patients can benefit from accessing digital tools alongside traditional forms of care. This guidance supports better conversations between clinicians and patients and helps everyone ask the right questions about whether a tool is right for them.

“Digital mental health technologies are not a replacement for professional healthcare. Anyone experiencing mental health difficulties should seek support from trained professionals.”

Questions to consider before utilising a digital mental health tool

The MHRA suggests that there are five crucial questions you should ponder before employing a mental health app or online resource. These encompass the following:

1. What is it claiming to do? Does this product provide general well-being support, or does it claim to diagnose, treat or help manage a mental health condition? Any assertions made should be clearly outlined and backed up with evidence.
2. Who is the intended user? Check the target age group for the app or tool, as something created for adults may not be suitable for children or teenagers.
3. Is there any evidence that it works? Trustworthy tools typically detail their testing or evaluation methods, such as clinical studies. Exercise caution with apps and websites that make substantial claims without providing transparent supporting information.
4. What happens to your data? Online mental health tools often gather highly sensitive personal data. The tool should clearly explain where and how this information is stored.
5. Is it regulated as a medical device? Some digital mental health tools are classified as medical devices, such as those that claim to diagnose, treat, or manage a mental health condition. Others are not designed as medical devices but are instead categorised as well-being or lifestyle products.

For emotional support, call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline at 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person, or go to the Samaritans website.

You can also speak with a trained advisor from Mind mental health charity on 0300 123 3393 or through email at info@mind.org.uk.