29 December 2025
New resources to help people in Sussex get support for their mental health have been developed by NHS, local authority, voluntary sector organisations and people with lived experience.
They aim to ensure that every person in Sussex knows how to find the right mental health information and support, and when to get help, with a focus on people who are neurodivergent, digitally excluded or may feel less confident using English. The mental health signposting resources have been translated into five languages: Arabic, Farsi, Polish, Bengali and Ukrainian.
The resources, which ask the question 'How Are You Really Feeling?' include guidance on when to seek help and where to find free and confidential mental health support for adults aged 18 and over living across Sussex. It brings together information from local NHS services, local authorities, community groups and voluntary organisations, helping people understand what support is available and how to access it.
This includes the Staying Well services, which offer same or next-day mental health support to support people experiencing a mental health crisis, and Talking Therapies, a self-referral service which supports people with common mental health problems like feelings of depression, excessive worry or social anxiety.
People can also find information about how to access help with issues that can have a negative impact on a person's mental health, including housing or financial worries.
Dr Claire Tanner, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We know that navigating mental health support can feel particularly difficult if you are digitally excluded, neurodivergent, or living in Sussex and feel less confident using English. The How Are You Really Feeling? mental health resources are designed to meet people where they are, making it simpler and more accessible for anyone to find the help they need, when they need it.
We hope these new resources will help to break down some of the cultural, language and societal barriers that can prevent people from accessing help with their mental health.”
Neil Blanchard, Chief Executive of Southdown, said: “As the lead provider for the UOK mental health network in Brighton & Hove and East Sussex, Southdown is proud to stand behind this resource. Too many people still face barriers when trying to understand where to turn for mental health support, and we know the impact this can have on their lives. These new resources are an important step in making sure no one in Sussex is left without clear, accessible information when they need it most. It shows the power of partners coming together with purpose and compassion, and I’m delighted that our shared commitment is helping create a resource that will genuinely make a difference.”
To find out more and access the mental health signposting resources go to: www.how-are-you-really-feeling-sussex.nhs.uk.
