Feeling anxious, panicky or low can be frightening and exhausting – especially if you’re not sure where to start.
Many people feel this way at times, and you don’t have to cope 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 ways to connect with others.
Get help now (urgent support)
If you’re in crisis, feel unsafe, or your symptoms are becoming overwhelming:
- Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option (press 2 in West Yorkshire)
- 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
If speaking to someone feels like the right next step, you can contact free, confidential services in Leeds.
- Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service – Free NHS talking therapies for anxiety, stress and low mood. You can refer yourself directly online.
- Linking Leeds – A friendly first point of contact if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure what support you need. They can listen and help connect you to emotional, social or practical support.
- Leeds Mind – Community-based mental health support, including groups, counselling and peer support in Leeds.
- Live Well Leeds – Free wellbeing coaching and support to help with things like low mood, stress, sleep, confidence and healthy routines.
You can also explore talking therapies and counselling in Leeds to learn about NHS, low-cost and private options.
You can speak to your GP too, if that feels easier.
Try self-help ideas
Some people like to start with gentle self-help or learning more about what they’re experiencing.
You can explore:
- Understanding anxiety, panic, sleep problems and low mood
- Practical self-help ideas for looking after your wellbeing
- Calming techniques (including our sensory comfort kit)
- Mental health apps and online support
Connect with others
Feeling anxious or low can make you want to withdraw. But talking to people with similar experiences or joining gentle activities can help some people feel less alone.
You might like:
- Peer support groups
- Wellbeing groups and activities
- Creative activity groups
- Exercise and physical activity groups
- Outdoor activity groups
Practical support
Sometimes anxiety or low mood is linked to practical pressures like money, housing or work.
- Linking Leeds can support with everyday challenges and finding local help.
Or browse all support in Leeds
If you’re looking for something specific, you can search our full Mental Health and Wellbeing Directory by topic and sort by postcode.
You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Feeling anxious or low doesn’t mean you’ve failed – it means something in your life needs care and attention.
If things feel hard today, choosing just one link from this page is enough.
Last updated: February 2026