On World Mental Health Day, new figures from Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust revealed that their mental health helpline received over 34,000 calls in 2024, around 2,000 more than the previous year. It is the third consecutive year that calls have risen, a trend that speaks volumes about the pressures people are facing across the UK.
Deputy Director of Guildford Samaritans, Allen Ruddock, summed it up well: “Today’s world is a very pressured world.”
From social media and job insecurity to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, people are juggling more emotional strain than ever before. These challenges are affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including here in Surrey. There are many who are quietly struggling.
At The Eaves Counselling and Psychology, we have seen similar patterns. Over the past year, our practitioners have experienced a noticeable increase in people reaching out for support. Many clients tell us they have been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure where to turn and often, making that first call for help feels like the hardest step.
Bridget Walford, Owner at The Eaves, shares that “this is a pattern very much reflected in the increase in clients accessing private psychological assistance at The Eaves. There is no specific pattern of referrals in adults, children or families that we can track, just an overall increase. Our practitioners tell us that their clients report feeling overwhelmed, anxious, not knowing where to turn for the specific support they need and that just making that first enquiry feels like a massive step.”
The rise in helpline calls and local support use is not just a sign of distress, it’s also a sign of greater awareness and willingness to seek help. This shift is something to be encouraged. Whether through NHS services, charities like the Samaritans, or professional practices like ours, people are finding their voice and reaching out sooner.
In acknowledgment of the increasing pressure that our NHS colleagues are under, The Eaves has also expanded the size of our Affordable Counselling service, now making available nearly 50 weekly appointments for adult clients across our practices in Guildford, Godalming, Haslemere, and Farnham.
We provide accessible, high-quality psychological care 12 hours a day, six days a week. Our experienced counsellors, psychotherapists, and psychologists work with individuals, couples, children, and families. Helping people navigate life’s challenges in a confidential, compassionate environment.
Dr Emma Whicher, Chief Medical Officer for Surrey and Borders, shares that: “these services are here to offer everyone compassionate, expert care when it is needed.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that support is available. Reaching out, whether to a helpline, a friend or a professional is a sign of strength, not weakness.
With life’s increasing demands, stress has become a common experience but when it builds it can take a toll on our sleep, mood and relationships.
At The Eaves, our therapists help clients understand their stress triggers and develop practical ways to manage them, from building resilience and balance to learning relaxation and coping techniques.
You don’t have to face constant pressure alone. Whether in-person or online, our qualified practitioners can support you in finding calm, clarity and control again.