Explore Options for Support

It can be very helpful to think about sources of support before a crisis happens. Having a plan in place means you and those around you know what to do if your mental health suddenly worsens.

Here are some areas you could explore:

• Speak with your GP about available treatments, local services, and referral options.
• Contact your local Mind branch to find out whether they provide day services, crisis support, or drop-in groups.
• Keep a list of helplines and listening services, with their phone numbers and opening hours, somewhere you can easily find it.
• Read through our mental health information pages and self-care strategies for ideas to use when things feel overwhelming.
• Consider peer support groups where you can connect with others who have similar experiences and share coping strategies.
• Prepare a self-care box filled with comforting or distracting items. Having it ready in advance makes it easier to reach for helpful tools in the moment.
• Explore recovery colleges, which offer free courses on mental health, wellbeing, and recovery in a supportive setting.
• Learn about social care services that can help with day-to-day needs. Our guide to health and social care rights provides further detail.

Planning with Friends or Family

Talking with people you trust about how you would like to manage a crisis can make it easier for them to support you effectively if the situation arises.

You might want to discuss and note down:

• How they can help you notice early warning signs of a crisis.
• The kind of support that feels most helpful for you (for example, practical help, listening, or company).
• Who they should contact if you cannot keep yourself safe.
• Your preferences for treatment or support services.

You may also wish to identify someone you trust to act as an advocate. In some cases, family intervention services may also be available. These focus on improving communication, problem-solving, and crisis planning within families. Speak with your GP to check what support exists locally.

Advance Statements

During a mental health crisis, you may find it difficult or impossible to make decisions about your treatment (this is sometimes called ‘losing capacity’). An advance statement is a written record of your preferences to guide healthcare professionals if that happens.

An advance statement might include:

• Your preferred treatment options.
• Who you would like to be contacted in a crisis.
• Spiritual or religious views and requests.
• Dietary needs or food preferences.

You can create an advance statement with the support of your GP, care coordinator, psychiatrist, or another healthcare professional. While advance statements are not legally binding, professionals should take them into account whenever possible. To learn more about your rights, see our pages on the Mental Capacity Act.

Examples of Advance Planning Tools

There are several types of documents that can help you record your wishes and prepare for crisis situations. Each serves a slightly different purpose but all aim to ensure your voice is heard when you are most vulnerable.