If you’re thinking about getting support

It’s normal to feel anxious sometimes – but if worry, panic or racing thoughts are starting to take over, you don’t have to cope alone. Help is available in Leeds, and many services can be contacted directly without going through your GP.

Different types of support work for different people. it’s okay to try a few different options to see what works for you.

If you’re autistic, have ADHD or think you might be neurodivergent, see our section on anxiety and neurodivergence for specialist support and adjustments.

You might want to talk to someone if:

  • your anxiety feels overwhelming or constant
  • you feel stuck in patterns of worry or panic

Talking to someone in a safe, non-judgemental space can really help.

Local counselling and talking therapies

Talking therapies involve speaking to a trained professional about your thoughts and feelings, and can help you understand what’s going on and find ways to cope.

You can find out more about your options on our Talking therapies and counselling page.

Explore local talking therapy options

NHS Talking Therapies in Leeds

You can refer yourself to Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service (LMWS) – the NHS Talking Therapies service for adults (17+) in Leeds.

LMWS offers support for anxiety, stress, low mood and other common mental health problems. Depending on what you need, this could include:

  • guided self-help
  • online group classes and workshops focused on anxiety and wellbeing
  • one-to-one therapy (in person, by phone or online)
  • mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)

You can complete a self-referral form online without seeing your GP first.

Refer yourself to Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service

If you are registered with a GP, your practice can also refer you to the Primary Care Mental Health (PCMH) team within LMWS. This service offers short-term support, advice and help accessing appropriate services.

LMWS also provides employment advice if anxiety is affecting your work or you are returning to employment.

You might want practical or community support if:

If that’s the case, practical help can make a big difference.

Being You Leeds

Being You Leeds runs groups and activities seven days a week, including evenings and weekends, at community venues across Leeds.

Check out their full range of free groups and activities on MindWell.

Leeds Mind

Leeds Mind is a local charity offering a range of support including peer groups, counselling, wellbeing activities and employment support. Connecting with others who understand anxiety can make a real difference.

Leeds Recovery College

Leeds Recovery College runs free courses and workshops to help you understand mental health and build wellbeing skills. You can enrol yourself on many courses without needing a referral.

Linking Leeds

Linking Leeds can connect you with practical and community-based support, including:

  • community groups and activities
  • volunteering opportunities
  • social support
  • advice on practical issues affecting wellbeing

Refer yourself to Linking Leeds

Live Well Leeds

Live Well Leeds provides community mental health support for adults with mild to moderate mental health needs. They offer practical help, group activities and one-to-one support.

Other ways to get support

There are many different routes into support, and different things work for different people.

If you need urgent help

If anxiety becomes overwhelming or you feel unable to keep yourself safe:

  • Call 999 in an emergency
  • Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for advice.
  • Visit our Need urgent help page for 24-hour crisis support in Leeds

Remember

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There’s no wrong way to start – whether it’s a chat with your GP, a call to a helpline, or filling in a short referral form online, support is here for you in Leeds.

Last updated: February 2026