There is a wealth of information available online and some great tools that can help support you. Remember that all of the information we provide here has been suggested by professionals along with the help of young folk, but just be sure to check out the Online Safety page before you go searching for other information.
Togetherall is a safe, 24/7 online community where people support each other anonymously to improve mental health and wellbeing.
This means anyone who may be struggling with mental health, distress or anxiety can get support at a time that suits them. Togetherall has already helped over 200,000 people around the UK and has very positive reviews from current users – and is now working with a third of Councils in Scotland supporting the mental health of their young people.
SOS Orkney is a progressive web app which aims to help those in need to manage and put in place helpful strategies to cope in times of crisis. The app contains a variety of local and national support services which people can access via the links in the app.
The SOS Orkney app can currently be accessed here: Suicide Orkney Support – Home
Please Note: This app is not a replacement for professional help, we recommend seeking further support from a health professional.
Whether you are struggling with friendships, family life, or really personal issues like sexuality, or you just feel down or alone, remember – many adults in your life will have felt this way too at some point and will want to help you. Teachers, club leaders and youth workers or other adults you trust can all lend a supportive ear – and can help you start to unpick your problems.
Here are some local organisations who can give you confidential help with the big issues:
Relationships Scotland Orkney offers free support or counselling in a safe, confidential space to talk about your situation, whether you are in a relationship or not – enquiries@rsorkney.org.uk or call 01856 877750.
The Youth Café runs a weekly support session, called The Pride Tribe, for young LGBT+ people, and meet on a Wednesday evening between 6pm and 7.30pm. Email lianne.taylor@orkney.gov.uk for details or visit the Orkney Youth Café’s Facebook page.
Get involved with Orkney Pride or just take a look at their Facebook page.
It’s not easy feeling down. There are some simple steps you can take to boost your mood – such as getting exercise and fresh air, connecting with people in your life, and eating and sleeping well. But if your low mood is hard to budge and is affecting your relationships or learning, you might want to speak to someone. You can start with your family doctor, or reach out to one of the organisations on our ‘I need help now‘ page.
During normal office hours Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm Contact Orkney Health and Care Children and Families Services on 01856 873535 extension 3342 or if the person is an adult call 01856 873535 and ask for Adult Social Work
This will take you to The Balfour Hospital switchboard then you ask for the Emergency Social Worker.
