Every year on 10 October, communities around the globe come together to mark World Mental Health Day – a time to reflect on the importance of mental wellbeing and to raise awareness of the support available.

This year’s theme, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, is “Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies.” The theme highlights that whatever challenges people may face, everyone deserves the chance to protect and improve their mental health.

If it’s an emergency or you need urgent help

• If you or someone else is in danger, call 999 or go to A&E now.
• If you need urgent help for your mental health, get help from NHS 111 online or call 111.

Local support is available

Poor mental health is not inevitable – and across Norfolk and Waveney, there are services ready to help people take positive steps towards feeling better.

Norfolk and Waveney Talking Therapies (NWTT) provides free support for people aged 16 and over who are experiencing common mental health challenges such as low mood, depression, anxiety or stress.

The service offers a wide range of support, including:

• One-to-one sessions
• Guided self-help
• Services tailored for young people
• Relationship counselling for couples, individuals and families
• Online workshops
• Perinatal support for parents
• Peer support and social groups
• Signposting to help with wider issues like debt, housing and employment

You can be referred by your GP, another health or social care professional, or you can self-refer online or by phone.

📞 Call 0300 123 1503 (lines open 8am–8pm, Monday to Friday)
👉 Self-referral form available via the Talking Therapies website

If you are 15 or under, speak to your GP about the support available for your age group.

Taking support on the road

This year also saw the launch of the Norfolk and Waveney Talking Therapies Mobile Service Vehicle (MSV) – a fully equipped therapy van designed to bring mental health support directly into communities.

The vehicle, which began its pilot in September 2025 at Chatterton House in King’s Lynn, provides a private, wheelchair-accessible clinical space with Wi-Fi. This means individuals can access the same high-quality talking therapies they would receive in a clinic, but without the barrier of travel.

During the pilot phase, the MSV will also be present at community events and family fun days, helping to raise awareness of the support available while offering therapy in the heart of local communities. Based on feedback from service users and staff, the vehicle is expected to be stationed for extended periods in different locations across Norfolk and Waveney in the future.

The MSV is an important step in reducing stigma, removing barriers to care, and ensuring more people can get support when and where they need it.

Other local organisations

Alongside Talking Therapies, there are a number of organisations across Norfolk and Waveney offering vital support:

• Wellbeing Hubs – Safe spaces in the community where people can get support for their mental health and wellbeing.
• Norfolk & Waveney Mind – Support for individuals, families, friends and colleagues. Call 0300 330 5488 (Option 1) to be connected to a Recovery Triage Operator who can guide you to the right service.

Reaching out is the first step

World Mental Health Day is a reminder that mental health matters to us all. Talking openly, challenging stigma, and knowing where to turn for support can make a real difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available today – you don’t have to face it alone. For more information about Norfolk and Waveney mental health support please visit our dedicated webpage.