Emotional well being
Coming to terms with and managing an immunodeficiency is likely to have an emotional impact. Many people will need emotional support or professional psychological counselling at some stage.
It is always important to discuss any emotional difficulties with your GP as they will be aware of local services. Having a conversation about your mental health to a GP may be difficult but the Mental Health Foundation have developed this excellent guide to help.
In addition to NHS services there are organisations that can either advise about or directly provide emotional support.
British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP)
This is the professional body for counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK. The Association sets, promotes and maintains standards for the counselling profession. When choosing a counsellor it is best for the person you work with to be a member of the BACP Register http://www.bacpregister.org.uk/ This gives you an assurance that they meet the standards of proficiency and ethical practice you would expect.
This link will help you find a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist close to you.
01455 883300
SANE
SANE runs a national, out-of-hours mental health helpline offering specialist emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental illness, including family, friends and carers. They are open every day of the year from 6pm to 11pm.
0300 304 7000
The Mix
The Mix is a free, confidential and multi-issue helpline support service for young people. It covers mental health, relationships, work and study and money issues.
0808 808 4994
Every Mind Matters
Every Mind Matters is an NHS resource providing self-help and advice on common issues such as anxiety, sleep problems, coping with worry and managing low mood. It also has information on self-help CBT techniques and how to access free NHS talking therapy.
Hub of Hope
Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database. It is provided by the national mental health charity, Chasing the Stigma. It can signpost to support services covering a range of issues including mental health support in your area.
Family Lives
Support and advice for all aspects of parenting.
Helpline: 0808 800 222
Contact
Advice and information on navigating health/social care/education needs; workshops and events for families with disabled children
Helpline: 0808 808 3555
Carers UK
Provides advice, information and support for the partners, spouses and other family members of those living with a health condition.
SHOUT 85258
SHOUT provides a free, confidential 24-hour text messaging support service offering help and advice to anyone in crisis. Simply text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
Papyrus UK Suicide Prevention
This charity is dedicated to the prevention of suicide and the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in young people under the age of 35, as well as people concerned about someone else.
Call: 0800 068 41 41
Text: 07860 039967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Relate
The UK’s largest provider of relationship support. Relate helps people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations to strengthen their relationships.
0300 100 1234
Samaritans
Samaritan trained volunteers are able to listen to you any time of the day or night. They can help you talk through whatever is troubling you, find the answers that are right for you and offer support.
Call 116 123
Changing Faces
https://www.changingfaces.org.uk/
Changing Faces supports people who have any condition that affects their appearance, anywhere in the UK. They can provide confidential emotional support, advice and information.
0345 450 0275 or 020 7391 9270
Posted May 2017, reviewed February 2024.
