Help them get professional support

Are they under 18? This guide is about supporting an adult. See NHS support for children and young people. If you are under 18 and supporting someone else, see young-carer rights and support.

Where to start

Their GP

A GP can discuss what has been happening, consider physical and mental-health causes, talk through treatment and refer to other services where appropriate.

You could offer to help book the appointment, write down the main points, attend if they want you there, or wait outside and help them get home afterwards.

NHS Talking Therapies in England

Adults in England can refer themselves to NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression without a diagnosis. It is normally available from age 18, and from 16 or 17 in some areas. Some services accept people who are not registered with a GP.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use different routes. Start with their GP or the relevant national NHS information service.

They do not have to tell their whole life story before asking for help.

Going into the appointment

Ask what role they want you to have. They may want you to sit quietly, help explain changes you have observed, prompt them from notes, ask an agreed question, or wait outside.

The appointment is about them. Avoid speaking over them or answering every question unless they ask you to.

What treatment may involve

The NHS says treatment may include talking therapy, medication, practical or social support, or a combination, depending on the person and the severity of their symptoms. The decision belongs to the person and the clinician.

For questions about antidepressants, side effects, missed doses or stopping, use NHS or Royal College of Psychiatrists information and speak to the person's prescriber or a pharmacist.

If there is a wait

Help them confirm what happens next and who to contact if things worsen. Keep ordinary, low-pressure contact going and offer manageable practical help. If they become unsafe, use urgent or emergency help.

Confidentiality

With the person's consent, a professional may be able to include you in parts of a conversation or care plan. Without consent, they may be unable to discuss the person's care with you. They can still listen to relevant concerns, although they may need to tell the patient where important information came from.

Here for Someone is an independent information project. It is not a helpline or medical service. This page organises public guidance from the organisations linked beside the relevant information; it has not been clinically reviewed by Here for Someone.

Sources checked: 26 August 2026