KNOW WHERE TO GO: Mental Health and Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Communities

Latest Campaign News Know Where to go: GP Hub Know Where to Go Films Get Involved Your Guide: Online Know Where to Go: Friends and Family factsheet

One in four of us in Scotland will experience a mental health problem in any year. But 800,000 adults across Scotland don't Know Where to Go to get help for their mental health. What's more, 25% of people who experience mental health problems wait more than a year to seek help after first developing concerns about their mental health.  Some people in society face extra barriers in getting help for their mental health, and often people from BME communities can find it more difficult to access the mental health services they need. Many of the issues faced by people with mental health problems are the same across communities. However, research shows that sometimes people from BME groups find it more difficult to access the right help and support for their mental health. The earlier you get help and support for your mental health, the better. And there is a wealth of help and support available out there, if you Know Where to Go! Know Where to Go: Your Guide for BME communities

HOW CAN WE MAKE THINGS BETTER?

If you're concerned about your mental health, talking to friends and family, and visiting your GP to discuss your concerns and symptoms is a good place to start. But it can feel like a big step. Why not have a look at our resources below to help you. 

 

• Know Where to Go: Your Guide Your guide to information on where you can get help and support for your mental health, online, over the phone and in person, including links to resources in a number of languages.
• Know Where to Go: Your Rights contains information on your rights day to day and in care and treatment.
• Helping Someone Prepare for a GP appointment This resource helps friends or family members support a loved one with a mental health problem to make and prepare for a GP appointment.
• Know Where to Go: Friends and Family factsheet  This factsheet helps the friends and family of people with mental health problems to provide practical support for their loved one and includes tips on how to look after their own mental wellbeing. 
• Mental Health Problems Explained This guide helps explain some of the more common mental health problems.
•  Directory of SAMH services across Scotland This directory has a full list of SAMH services across Scotland, arranged by issue, including addictions, crisis services, day services and other support.