Mental health library
Getting mental health support in the UK, UAE, Ireland and Canada
Every country does mental health care differently. These guides explain the public options, private therapy, crisis lines and the practical things nobody tells you, for South Asian people living in the UK, the UAE, Ireland and Canada.
Mental health support in the UK for South Asian communities
NHS Talking Therapies, your GP, crisis lines, private therapy and therapy in Urdu or Punjabi: how to get mental health help in the UK.
Country guidesMental health support in the UAE: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond
Public and private mental health services in the UAE, insurance cover, the national support line, and online therapy in Urdu for South Asian residents.
Country guidesMental health support in Ireland for South Asian communities
HSE mental health services, counselling for medical card holders, crisis lines, private therapy and therapy in Urdu or Punjabi in Ireland.
Country guidesMental health support in Canada for South Asian communities
Provincial mental health services, 988, workplace benefits, private therapy and therapy in Urdu or Punjabi for South Asian Canadians.
Common questions about country guides
Can I get free therapy in the UK?
Yes. NHS talking therapies are free. In England you can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies; elsewhere in the UK, start with your GP. Waiting times vary.
How do I find a therapist in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Options include government and private hospitals, private clinics, and online therapy. Many employer insurance plans cover some mental health care.
Is therapy free in Ireland?
The HSE offers free counselling through primary care for medical card holders and some community services. Private therapy is also available.
Does Canadian health insurance cover therapy?
Provincial plans cover psychiatrists and some publicly funded programmes, but private psychologists and therapists are usually paid privately or through work benefits.
What is the mental health crisis number in Canada?
Call or text 988, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, any time. In an emergency call 911.
What is the mental health helpline in the UAE?
The national support line is 800 4673. In an emergency call 999, or 998 for an ambulance.
What number do I call in a mental health crisis in the UK?
Samaritans 116 123 any time, NHS 111 for urgent help, or 999 in an emergency.
Can I have online therapy with a therapist in another country?
Yes, many people do, often to find someone who speaks their language. Check the professional is happy to work with clients in your country.
Can I get therapy in Urdu wherever I live?
Yes. Online therapy on Therapy O'Clock connects people in the UK, UAE, Ireland and Canada with professionals who speak Urdu, Punjabi, Pashto and English.
Will private therapy appear on my medical record?
Private therapy is not normally added to your public health record unless you ask your professional to write to your doctor.
Can I use online therapy while on an NHS waiting list?
Yes. Many people use private sessions while waiting, or as an alternative if they want a particular language or approach.
Need help right now?
If you might act on thoughts of harming yourself, or someone is in danger, call your emergency number now. Free, confidential support:
- United Kingdom Samaritans 116 123 (free, any time) · NHS 111 · emergency 999
- Ireland Samaritans 116 123 · text HELLO to 50808 · emergency 112 or 999
- United Arab Emirates National support line 800 4673 · emergency 999 (ambulance 998)
- Canada Suicide Crisis Helpline 988 (call or text) · emergency 911