How do I tell someone I'm struggling?
You only need one sentence, and it can be a text: 'I've not been right for a while and I didn't know how to say it.' You don't need to explain why, have a diagnosis, or be able to finish the conversation. To a GP, 'I'm struggling with my mental health' is enough to start an appointment.
To a mate
'Bit of a weird text, but I've been struggling lately. Fancy a pint this week?'
'Not been myself for a few months. Don't need advice, just wanted someone to know.'
To a partner
'I've been low and I've been hiding it. I don't want you to fix it, I just didn't want to keep lying about it.'
To your GP
'I'm struggling with my mental health.' That's the whole script. Ask for a double appointment if you can, and write it on a bit of paper and hand it over if saying it out loud isn't happening. Being honest about suicidal thoughts does not get you sectioned — it gets you seen properly.
To your boss
You don't owe anyone a diagnosis. 'I'm dealing with a health issue and I may need some flexibility' is enough. Many employers have a free confidential counselling line — it's usually called an Employee Assistance Programme.
If you can't say it to anyone you know
That's what Samaritans (116 123) and SHOUT (text 85258) are for. Saying it once to a stranger makes saying it to someone you love a lot easier.
Not sure where you are on the scale?
Press the button, pick a number from 1 to 10, and see what fits.
Last checked: September 2026