Ask Jigsaw: How to approach getting help

Friday, 16 October 2020

Hi,
Recently I feel like my mental heath has gotten quite bad. I’ve been able to ignore how I feel in the past but something, I’m not sure what, has changed and I think I need to look into options for what can I do because I definitely can’t continue like this.

I’m not sure how to approach getting help though. I’ve heard of jigsaw through friends and from looking it up online but I have no idea would the jigsaw facilities work for me or should I go to my GP?

I don’t have anyone I feel comfortable talking to in my life right now so this is why I’ve come here.
I’m 18 and I haven’t been diagnosed with anything. I don’t know if that changes things or if it matters.

Thanks.
-Olivia

Hi Olivia,

I’m sorry to hear that your mental health has gotten quite bad recently. You don’t have to ignore how you feel, and talking things through can really help.

There are lots of support options out there, and it can feel overwhelming when trying to decide where to start. I can tell you a little bit about the supports we offer at Jigsaw, which might help you to decide if it would be suitable for you.

Jigsaw Services

You do not need a diagnosis or a referral to access Jigsaw Services.

Jigsaw have 12 hubs across Ireland where young people can attend up to 8 free sessions with a Jigsaw clinician. Clinicians can help you to explore what is impacting your mental health and to come up with strategies to cope positively with challenges you’re facing. You can find out if there is a hub in your area here.

In order to access this support, you can call or email the hub directly. A member of staff from the hub will have a chat with you, and you can decide together if it’s right for you.

Emily

Jigsaw clinician

Our Jigsaw Online team provide a space for you to talk freely about how things are for you right now.

Jigsaw Live Chat

Our Live Chat service is another option. The chats work on a drop in basis, and provide ‘in the moment’ support. Our Jigsaw Online team provide a space for you to talk freely about how things are for you right now. They can help you to come up with strategies for managing difficult thoughts and feelings .

We also have weekly group chats, where people discuss mental health topics and support each other. The groups are facilitated by a member of the Jigsaw Online Team.

Other options

Jigsaw won’t be right for everyone, and that’s okay. If you’re still unsure about whether it’s for you, feel free to contact your local hub or request a Live Chat to discuss it further. We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have.

If you decide that Jigsaw is not the most appropriate service for you, click here to find out about other services and supports that can help, including what to expect from a GP visit.

Well done for reaching out for support Olivia, and I hope you can find the right option for you.

Take care,

Emily

Jigsaw clinician