New resources launched to help people in Sussex get mental health support

New mental health resources have been launched to help people across Sussex find the right support when they need it.

The new signposting guides have been developed through a partnership between the NHS, local authorities, voluntary sector organisations and people with lived experience of mental health challenges. The aim is to make sure everyone in Sussex knows where to turn for help, and when to seek it.

The resources place a particular focus on people who may face barriers when accessing support. This includes those who are neurodivergent, digitally excluded, or who may feel less confident using English. To improve accessibility, the information has been translated into five languages: Arabic, Farsi, Polish, Bengali and Ukrainian.

Under the heading “How Are You Really Feeling?”, the resources bring together clear and practical guidance on mental health support available to adults aged 18 and over living across Sussex. They include advice on recognising when to seek help, as well as details of free and confidential services that can offer support.

Information from local NHS services, county councils, community groups and voluntary organisations has been combined into one place, making it easier for people to understand what help is available and how to access it.

Among the services highlighted are the Staying Well services, which provide same-day or next-day mental health support for people experiencing a mental health crisis. The resources also signpost people to NHS Talking Therapies, a self-referral service offering support for common mental health problems such as depression, excessive worry and social anxiety.

In addition, the guides include information on accessing help for issues that can affect mental wellbeing, including housing problems and financial worries.

Organisers hope the new resources will reduce confusion, remove barriers to support and encourage more people to seek help at an earlier stage, ensuring mental health support across Sussex is accessible to everyone who needs it.

Dr Claire Tanner, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We know that navigating mental health support can feel particularly difficult if you are digitally excluded, neurodivergent, or living in Sussex and feel less confident using English. The How Are You Really Feeling? mental health resources are designed to meet people where they are, making it simpler and more accessible for anyone to find the help they need, when they need it. 

We hope these new resources will help to break down some of the cultural, language and societal barriers that can prevent people from accessing help with their mental health.” 

Neil Blanchard, Chief Executive of Southdown, said: “As the lead provider for the UOK mental health network in Brighton & Hove and East Sussex, Southdown is proud to stand behind this resource. Too many people still face barriers when trying to understand where to turn for mental health support, and we know the impact this can have on their lives. These new resources are an important step in making sure no one in Sussex is left without clear, accessible information when they need it most. It shows the power of partners coming together with purpose and compassion, and I’m delighted that our shared commitment is helping create a resource that will genuinely make a difference.” 

To find out more and access the mental health signposting resources go to: www.how-are-you-really-feeling-sussex.nhs.uk.