Mental health support in the UK for South Asian communities
The UK has free mental health services through the NHS, plus private options. Here is how to find your way through them.
NHS talking therapies
- England: NHS Talking Therapies offers free therapy for anxiety and depression. You can refer yourself online without seeing a GP. Waiting times vary by area.
- Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: talk to your GP, who can refer you to local psychological services.
NHS services may offer interpreters, and some areas have therapists who speak South Asian languages, but availability varies.
Your GP
Your GP can assess you, discuss medication, refer you to specialist services and check for physical causes such as thyroid problems, anaemia or low vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is common in people with darker skin in the UK.
Crisis support
- Samaritans: 116 123, free, any time.
- Shout: text SHOUT to 85258 for text support.
- NHS 111: for urgent help when it is not an emergency. In England, NHS 111 can connect you to mental health crisis support.
- 999 or A&E: if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
Private therapy
Private therapy lets you choose your therapist, language and timing without a waiting list. You can find practitioners through professional directories, or book online.
Titles in the UK
In the UK, titles such as "clinical psychologist" and "counselling psychologist" are protected and require HCPC registration. Professionals registered in other countries practise under their own country's registration. Therapy O'Clock shows each professional's role and where they practise.
Employer support
Many UK employers offer an employee assistance programme (EAP) with free, confidential counselling sessions. Check your staff benefits.
Culturally specific support
Some UK charities and community organisations offer support for South Asian and Muslim communities. Mosques, gurdwaras and temples increasingly run mental health awareness work.
Therapy in your language
If you want a professional who speaks Urdu, Punjabi, Pashto or Saraiki and understands your background, online therapy widens your options beyond your local area.
Questions people ask
How do I get free therapy on the NHS?
In England, refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies online or through your GP. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, speak to your GP.
Do I need a GP referral for NHS therapy in England?
No. You can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression.
How long is the NHS waiting list for therapy?
It varies by area and service. Some people are seen within weeks, others wait months.
Can I get NHS therapy in Urdu or Punjabi?
Some areas offer interpreters or bilingual therapists, but availability varies. Online private therapy offers more choice of language.
What is the UK mental health crisis number?
Samaritans on 116 123, Shout by texting 85258, NHS 111 for urgent help, or 999 in an emergency.
Can my GP help with anxiety and depression?
Yes. Your GP can assess you, discuss treatments including medication, and refer you to therapy.
What is an employee assistance programme?
A workplace benefit offering free, confidential counselling sessions. Check with HR or your staff benefits portal.
Are online therapists regulated in the UK?
UK-based practitioner psychologists are regulated by the HCPC. Professionals in other countries are regulated by their own national bodies.
Can I use private therapy while waiting for the NHS?
Yes. Many people do, and you can stay on the NHS waiting list.
Is private therapy confidential from my GP?
Yes, unless you ask your therapist to share information or there is a serious safety concern.
Does vitamin D affect mood in the UK?
Low vitamin D is common in South Asian people in the UK and can be linked to low mood and tiredness. Ask your GP about testing.