Stress is something we all experience – but when it builds up, or when life throws something really difficult at you, it can feel overwhelming and hard to know where to turn.
You don’t have to manage on your own. This page can help you think about your next step – whether that’s talking to someone, trying some self-help ideas, or finding practical support.
Get help now (urgent support)
If you’re in crisis, feel unsafe, or things have become too much to cope with:
- Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option (press 2)
- Or visit our Need urgent help page for crisis services and emergency options
If someone’s life is in immediate danger, call 999.
Talk to someone
Sometimes just having someone to talk to makes a real difference.
- Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service – Free NHS talking therapies for stress, anxiety and low mood. You can refer yourself directly online. They also run free Stress Control Classes – a practical six-week course to help you understand and manage stress.
- Linking Leeds – A friendly first point of contact if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start. They can listen and help connect you to emotional, social or practical support.
- Live Well Leeds – Free wellbeing coaching to help with things like stress, low mood, sleep and building healthier routines.
- Leeds Mind – Community-based mental health support including groups, counselling and peer support.
You can also speak to your GP if that feels like the right step.
Try self-help ideas
If you’re not ready to talk to someone yet, exploring information and self-help at your own pace can be a good starting point.
You can explore:
- Understanding stress and how it affects you
- How life events and challenges can affect your mental health – including bereavement, money worries, work stress, relationship difficulties and more
- Practical ideas for looking after your wellbeing
- Calming techniques to help in difficult moments
- Mental health apps and online support
Connect with others
When life is difficult, it’s easy to pull away from people. But connecting with others – even gently – can help you feel less alone and more supported.
You might like:
- Peer support groups
- Wellbeing groups and activities
- Creative activity groups
- Outdoor activity groups
- Exercise and physical activity groups
Practical support
Stress is often tied to real-life pressures – money, housing, work, caring responsibilities. Getting help with the practical side of things can make a big difference to how you feel.
- Linking Leeds – Leeds’s city-wide social prescribing service can help you tackle everyday challenges and connect you with local support. Learn more about social prescribing.
- Find information about specific challenges like debt and money worries, work issues or caring for someone.
Or browse all support in Leeds
Looking for something specific? Search our full directory by topic and sort by postcode.
Difficult times don’t last forever, even when they feel that way. You don’t need to have everything figured out – choosing just one thing from this page is a good place to start.
Last updated: June 2026