Waiting Well
Welcome to our Waiting Well page. We want to say well done — you’ve already taken a huge step towards helping yourself feel better by attending your assessment. Now you are on our waiting list we would encourage you to watch this video around further steps you can take to improve your wellbeing whilst waiting for therapy.
There are lots of things you can do to support yourself and to start making progress today. Here in Somerset, we’re lucky to have a wide range of support services and self‑help resources. We encourage you to use these wherever you can.
How to wait well for your therapy
Things to remember
If things change while you are waiting
If your circumstances change while you’re waiting — such as your contact details or your availability for therapy — please let us know as soon as possible by contacting us. This helps us stay in touch and prevents any difficulties with attending appointments.
If you start to feel worse while you’re waiting, or your wellbeing takes a turn, don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP. They’ll be able to discuss your concerns and refer you to the most appropriate services for further support.
Preparing for therapy
When it’s time for therapy, try to make space in your week for it. Speak with your manager about time off if needed and arrange any childcare or support ahead of time. Therapy sessions are usually during the day and last around an hour each week. Give yourself time before and after sessions to prepare and reflect.
Remember, therapy is a partnership. It’s not something we do to you — it’s something we do together. Think of it like recovering from an injury: your physiotherapist supports you, but you build strength by practising in between sessions.
Getting started
Finally, remember you don’t need to do everything at once. Choose one thing and give it a go. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Feeling unmotivated or powerless is normal, but there is always something you can do to help yourself while you wait.
Each small step you take is a charge in your battery. You’re already on your journey. And when therapy begins, you’ll be that much stronger and more prepared.
Remember, you’re not alone, and there are things you can get started with right now.
Resources to use while you wait
- Self Help Guides
- Our Service website has videos, podcasts and other information you might find helpful.
- Somerset Libraries Reading Well scheme has self-help books recommended by health professionals – Health book collections
- Somerset’s Mental Health Alliance – Open Mental Health
- Somerset Mindline 24/7
- Crisis Safe Space – Open Mental Health
- Our Services – Mind in Somerset
- Get expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental wellbeing and make them part of your daily routine at Every Mind Matters.
Self-help and support
Open Mental Health
Open Mental Health is an alliance of voluntary, charity, faith and social‑enterprise organisations, alongside the NHS. You can access their support while you are waiting.
Small steps can help
Simple things like going for a walk, keeping a regular routine, or connecting with others can make a big difference.
Online self‑help resources
You’ll also find resources on our website, including SilverCloud and guidebooks. SilverCloud gives you tools and activities to help manage feelings and build resilience, even before therapy begins.
Groups and activities
Somerset Open Mental Health also offers a wide range of groups and activities you can get involved in, both in person and online. These include art and craft groups, walk‑and‑talk sessions, wellbeing groups, gardening activities, and more.
Getting started
You could try joining a hobby or support group, setting a simple daily routine, using self‑help guides from our online library, or reaching out to friends, family, or support services.
If you get stuck, remember to break things into small tasks. As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Take one step, then another.
