If you are referred to any children and young people's mental health services, there may be a wait before you start receiving support.
This can be frustrating, especially if you feel you need help sooner, but there are things you can do to help yourself while you wait.
Let someone know if things change
If your situation changes or gets worse, then call or email the service you were referred to, to let them know what has changed. Or get urgent help for your mental health if you need it.
Get support from friends and family
It can be helpful to have people around you that you can talk to who are aware that you are experiencing difficulties. But it's not always easy to open up to people. Mind has tips about talking to friends and family about your mental health.
If you are a parent or carer, read more on the Young Minds website about how to talk to a young person about their mental health.
Use mental health charities
Find out what immediate support and information you can get from mental health charities.
Try self-help techniques
Self-help techniques can also be a good way to manage your feelings or worries while you wait to be seen.
Different things work for different people, but might include activities like:
- doing something you enjoy – like listening to a podcast or watching your favourite TV show
- trying mental health apps – there are apps to help manage different feelings and symptoms, for example if you're feeling anxious or need help sleeping – Best for you has more information about different apps
- getting active – this could be getting outside for a walk or something simple like tidying your room
- being kind to yourself – try not to judge any thoughts or feelings you have
You can also read about the 5 steps to mental wellbeing.
The charity the Anna Freud Centre has lots of ideas for self-care to help you look after yourself.
Every Mind Matters has tips for both children and young people and their parents and carers.