How we look after each other

We’re all under increased pressure in our day-to-day lives. This means looking after our health and wellbeing has never been more important.

Many people now work from home which can also cause different challenges. These may affect our emotional and mental wellbeing.

It’s essential that we’re able to talk openly and honestly about our wellbeing. This includes talking about our mental health. There’s lots of information and support to help you with this.

Helplines

Helplines are available if you need support. You can get advice through:

• Breathing Space – phone 0800 83 85 87 (open 6pm to 2am, weekdays and 24 hours at the weekend)
• Samaritans – phone 116 123 (open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
• The Spark (relationship counselling) – phone 0808 802 2088 (open 10am to 7pm, Monday to Thursday and 10am to 4pm on Fridays)
• Remploy – phone 0300 456 8114 for support with your mental health at work

Online support

Mental wellbeing support is available online through:

• National Wellbeing Hub – mental wellbeing resources for health and social care workers
• Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) – Scotland’s largest mental health charity

If you find it difficult to switch off after a busy day or shift, you could use the Going Home Checklist. This can be a good way to make sure you leave work behind and switch off from the day’s events. 

Financial support

You can get financial support through:

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Citizens Advice (Scotland)
• National Wellbeing Hub

The NHS Credit Union also offers NHS staff and their families a direct savings route. Money is taken directly from your salary to help you save.

It’s quick and easy to join the NHS Credit Union. You’ll also get 24/7 support online and through a mobile app.

Support for carers

If you’re a paid or unpaid carer, you can also access support through:

• Care Information Scotland
• Carers Scotland
• Carers UK

NHS inform also has information for carers using NHS services.

Exercise advice

Being active can help to improve your mood and wellbeing. This is because it can:

• reduce stress
• lower anxiety
• increase energy levels

Any amount of physical activity is good for you. For example, walking, jogging and cycling are great ways to clear your head and stay active.

There are also some websites that can be useful in helping you to stay active.