Mental health and wellbeing advice

How to combat COVID-19 anxiety and maintain your mental health

It has been a particularly challenging time for people’s mental health, as we go about our day-to-day lives with COVID-19 . This page offers you a wealth of information on how to combat COVID-19 anxiety and maintain your mental health.

And, if you need more formal support, there is also information on how to contact mental health services such as Steps2Wellbeing and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

If you require urgent support, visist our Access Mental Health page.

Dorset helplines and support groups

Whether you're concerned about yourself or a loved one, these helplines and support groups can offer expert advice.

Connection

24-hour helpline, on freephone 0800 652 0190, offering urgent telephone access to mental health advice and support for people of all ages

Domestic abuse and safeguarding

During the colder months, families tend to spend much more time together indoors and this can increase stress and harm. #youarenotalone if you live in Dorset help is available.

If you are worried about a child who may be being harmed, abused or neglected in Dorset you can report concerns.

If you are worried about an adult who may be at risk of harm, abuse or neglect you can report concerns.

CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service)

Offering assessment and treatment to children and young people up the age of 18 who are experiencing significant mental health difficulties. Support also for families and carers. Services provided across Dorset, with main bases in Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth, Blandford and Dorchester.

Dorset Mental Health Forum

A local peer-led charity to improve the lives of everyone affected by mental illness by promoting wellbeing and recovery. We believe people with lived experience of mental health difficulties have a wealth of specialist knowledge and valuable expertise. We believe in the effectiveness of partnership working in the design and provision of mental health services. Everyone has an equal right to enjoy all the opportunities life can provide, which is why we promote the principle that hope, mental health and wellbeing are essential to all.

Dorset Pain Management Service

A multi-disciplinary team of pain specialists, supporting you to develop new skills to understand your body and deal with pain with greater knowledge and confidence. Together, we provide a range of services so that we can tailor what we offer to match your clinical and personal needs. This will help you come to terms with your pain and adopt effective strategies for living life meaningfully.

Steps to Wellbeing

A free, confidential NHS service for anyone aged 18+ who is experiencing problems with low mood/depression, anxiety or stress and is registered at a GP surgery in Dorset (including Bournemouth and Poole) and in Southampton.

We provide support either over the telephone, face-to-face, in groups or via the internet. We are a self-referral service, which means you can contact us directly to access support. We also accept referrals from GPs and other healthcare professionals.