Third sector organisations are at the heart of mental health and wellbeing support, offering compassionate, person-centred help within our communities.
However, anyone can experience mental health challenges at any time, including those working or volunteering in the third sector. Whether you are feeling stressed, anxious, low, isolated or overwhelmed, support is available in West Lothian.
Reaching out is a positive first step.
What is mental health?
Mental health affects how we think, feel and act. It can also influence how we cope with stress, relate to others, and make decisions.
Just like physical health, mental wellbeing can change over time. With the right support, people can find ways to manage difficult periods and improve their wellbeing.
Common experiences
You may benefit from support if you are:
- Feeling low, anxious or stressed
- Struggling with sleep or energy levels
- Finding it hard to cope with daily life
- Feeling isolated or lonely
- Dealing with loss, change or difficult situations
These experiences are common, and help is available.
Urgent help
If your feelings are becoming overwhelming, are not improving, or you feel unable to cope, it is important to seek further support.
You can:
- Speak to your GP
- Contact NHS 24 by calling 111
- Contact Samaritans free on 116 123
If you are in immediate danger, or someone’s life is at risk, call 999.
Find support in West Lothian
You can find local groups, services and support through the West Lothian Service Locator:
https://westlothianlocator.org/
You can also use the West Space support directory to find mental health and wellbeing support for people living and/or working in West Lothian:
https://westspace.org.uk/find-a-service/
Trusted support organisations
You may also wish to explore support, advice and information from trusted national and local organisations:
- SAMH — Scottish Action for Mental Health
https://www.samh.org.uk - Samaritans — free, confidential emotional support, available 24 hours a day
https://www.samaritans.org - EnvironMentalHealth CIC
https://www.environmentalhealthcic.org/meet-the-team/ - SMILE Counselling
https://www.smilecounselling.org.uk/ - Neil’s Hugs Foundation
https://www.neilshugsfoundation.com/
Free and low-cost counselling in West Lothian
Affordable counselling options are available in West Lothian, including support offered in person, by phone, online by video call, and by email.
You can explore counselling options through West Space:
You can also find out more about counselling and how it can help through NHS Inform:
Other ways to support your wellbeing
Small steps can make a difference. You could try to:
- Stay connected by talking to friends, family or local groups
- Be active through gentle movement, such as walking
- Take time for yourself to rest, relax and do things you enjoy
- Eat well and keep a regular sleep routine
- Ask for help when you need it
Remember
It is okay not to feel okay.
Talking to someone and reaching out for support can make a real difference.
