#WhereToTurnLeeds: Local mental health charities join forces ahead of World Mental Health Day

With Christmas fast approaching, a return back to school or work after a summer vacation, and the general state of current global affairs, it comes as no surprise that this time of year can be one of the most mentally gruelling across all walks of life.

With World Mental Health Day taking place this week on October 10, four leading Leeds charities have come together to give those struggling with their mental health easier access to the support they require.

Local organisations Leeds Mind, Touchstone, MindWell, and Forum Central have launched the joint #WhereToTurnLeeds campaign.

The week-long social media and information drive focuses on providing clear, accessible pathways to local services before individuals reach a crisis point.

The campaign highlights three main pathways for adults, young people, and families seeking guidance across the city.

The first focuses on key local health and wellbeing services, encouraging residents to reach out to their local GP, connect with the Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service for talking therapies, or contact Linking Leeds for practical social prescribing support.

For those looking to explore information online, dedicated portals offer tailored advice and directories.

MindWell serves as the primary mental health site for adults in Leeds, while the Mindmate platform provides tailored guidance for children and young people navigating common mental health challenges.

Additionally, neighbourhood charities and community groups like Leeds Mind and Touchstone offer direct local support, ranging from peer groups to volunteering initiatives designed to build confidence.

Arfan Hanif, Chief Executive at Touchstone, said: "We know that it can feel hard to find support when you are struggling with difficult feelings or life experiences. As a mental health and wellbeing charity, we are always working to try to make it easier for people to better understand the support on offer and access it when and where they need it."

Lucy Hancock, CEO at Leeds Mind, added: "People should have a choice in their mental health support, because what is best for one person may not be for another. Through the #WhereToTurnLeeds campaign, we want people to know that support options are out there, and to make sense of the choices available to them.

“You don't have to wait until things are really difficult to reach out."

Gemma Johnson, Programme Lead for MindWell, noted that clear information is more critical than ever as the platform marks 10 years of supporting adults in the city: "Asking for help can be scary, and trying to understand all the different options can feel overwhelming.

“Leeds has a really wide range of support available - finding what works for you can take time, and we want people to know there are plenty of places to start."

For urgent support, guidance on crisis services, or to follow the campaign, search the #WhereToTurnLeeds hashtag across social media platforms.