Emergency Help
- NHS 111 → option 2: 24/7 crisis support
- 999: if life is in immediate danger
- Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- Text: send "SHOUT" to 85258
- Barnardo's Ukrainian helpline: 0800 148 8586
Asylum seekers are 5 times more likely to need mental health support. 61% experience serious problems. You are not alone.
When You Need Urgent Help
- Thoughts of harming yourself or others
- Panic attacks that won't stop
- Hearing voices or seeing things
- Being unable to leave home due to fear
- Feeling a complete loss of control
GP and Mental Health
A GP can: carry out an assessment, prescribe medication, refer you to NHS Talking Therapies (free), refer you to specialists, and arrange an interpreter.
Prepare for your appointment:
- Write down your symptoms and how long they've been going on
- Ask for a double appointment (20 minutes)
- Use specific examples: instead of "I feel bad" → "I haven't been able to sleep for 3 weeks"
Useful English Phrases
- "I have been feeling very anxious" (severe anxiety)
- "I have trouble sleeping" (sleep problems)
- "I have flashbacks from traumatic events" (trauma memories)
- "I need an interpreter" (need an interpreter)
- "I feel like harming myself" (thoughts of self-harm)
In the British system, talking openly about mental health problems is normal. Healthcare workers are trained to work with trauma. Confidentiality is strictly observed.
Support Organisations
Nationwide:
- Refugee Council — 0808 196 7272
- Freedom from Torture — support for torture survivors
- Helen Bamber Foundation — comprehensive support
In London:
- Russian Community Association
- RESPOND (UCLH) — for asylum seekers
In other cities:
- Solace (Leeds) — psychotherapy
- GARAS (Gloucester)
- Asylum Welcome (Oxford)
If You Are Refused Help
- Ask for a written explanation
- Contact PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service)
- Get in touch with charitable organisations
- Submit a complaint through the NHS Complaints procedure