Local mental health and wellbeing support

There are lots of local groups in Portsmouth that can help support your mental health and wellbeing. These groups offer friendly spaces to meet others, learn new things, and feel better.

• Portsmouth Interaction runs sports and activity sessions for adults with mental health challenges. Activities include swimming, walks, table tennis, tennis, snooker, gym sessions, bowling, gardening and conservation. Email Kerry.morgan@bhlive.org.uk or call 023 9320 0369 to take part.
• Solent Recovery College offers courses for people with mental health issues. Courses are led by peer trainers (people with lived experience of mental health) and/or NHS Trainers (professionals who support mental wellbeing).
• Tonic: Music for Mental Health uses music and art to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental illness. They run music workshops, gigs, art groups and community projects. Email teamtonic@tonicmusic.co.uk or visit the Tonic Music website.
• The Good Mental Health Cooperative runs local activities and shares helpful resources to support your mental wellbeing.
• The Council’s Independence and Wellbeing Team offers social groups and activities to help reduce loneliness and build connections.
• The Carers Centre supports people who care for someone with a mental illness. They offer advice, activities, and a listening ear.
• Southsea Sangha is a friendly and open meditation group for anyone who wants to join.
• Southsea Mindfulness offers taster sessions, courses and retreats. Mindfulness helps you notice your thoughts, feelings, and body so you can respond calmly to life’s challenges.
• Gardening is a great way to boost your mental health. Portsmouth has 1,400 allotments across 11 sites, a community allotment and a community orchard.
• The Learning Place in Derby Road, North End, offers free and low-cost courses. You can meet new people, learn new skills or try a new hobby. Email thelearningplace@portsmouthcc.gov.uk, call 023 9262 1860 or visit the Learning Place Facebook page.
• Visit the HIVE Directory to find more local groups and organisations.

There are lots of useful resources and training to understand mental health better to help yourself or support someone else.

• Central Library Wellbeing Zone is located on the first floor of the Central Library in Guildhall Square. It includes information on emotional wellbeing. Portsmouth libraries also have Reading Well collections with self-help and mood-boosting books.
• Every Mind Matters (NHS) helps you spot signs of common mental health concerns and offers practical self-care tips and advice. It also includes a free online tool to build a personal action plan for managing stress and anxiety, boosting your mood, improving sleep and feeling more in control.
• Find online NHS tools and activities that can help boost your mental health. This includes stress busters, steps to wellbeing, and mental wellbeing audio guides.
• MindEd is a free educational resource for all ages. It includes sections for families worried about a child and supporting older people.
• Suicide First Aid Lite is free training for Portsmouth residents. It helps build confidence and skills in suicide awareness and prevention. Find out more and register.
• Frontline workers, support staff and volunteers in Portsmouth can access mental health training. This aims to reduce stigma around mental health and build confidence in supporting others. View the training offer document.
• Samaritans offer guidance on how to support someone who may be feeling suicidal. Visit the Samaritans website for more information.