In short
You can get free help with anxiety without a GP referral. If Qwell is funded where you live, you can chat online to a qualified practitioner in confidence, without joining a waiting list.
In England you can also refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies, or speak to your GP. If anxiety is stopping you doing everyday things, it's worth getting support early.
What anxiety can feel like
In your body
- A racing or pounding heart
- A tight chest or shallow breathing
- Tense muscles, headaches or a churning stomach
- Trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep
In your mind
- Worry that's hard to switch off
- Feeling on edge or dreading what might happen
- Finding it hard to concentrate
- Avoiding places, people or tasks
Everyone feels anxious sometimes. It's worth getting support when it happens often, feels intense, or starts getting in the way of work, sleep or relationships.
Things that can help today
- Slow your breathing. Breathe in gently through your nose, then breathe out for longer than you breathed in. A few minutes of this can settle your body's alarm.
- Get worries out of your head. Write them down, or set aside 15 minutes a day as worry time so they don't fill every hour.
- Move a little. A short walk helps use up the adrenaline anxiety creates.
- Watch the stimulants. Caffeine and alcohol can both make anxiety worse.
- Tell someone. Saying it out loud to a friend, relative or practitioner often makes it feel more manageable.
How Qwell can help with anxiety
- Chat to a qualified practitionerTalk through what's been happening and agree small, realistic steps together. Drop in, or book a time that suits you.
- Connect with people who get itRead and share with adults who've felt the same way. Every post is checked by our team before it goes live.
- Use tools between conversationsTrack how you're feeling, keep a journal and try short exercises that help you cope day to day.
Practitioners are available from 12pm to 10pm, every day. The community and tools are open 24 hours.
When to get more help
Speak to your GP if anxiety has lasted several weeks, you're having panic attacks, or it's affecting your work, relationships or physical health. Qwell practitioners can also help you think through next steps.
If you feel unsafe right now
If you think you might act on thoughts of harming yourself, call 999 or go to A&E. You can call Samaritans free on 116 123, any time.
Questions people ask
Can I get help for anxiety without seeing my GP?
Yes. Qwell doesn't need a referral. If it's funded where you live, you can sign up yourself with a username. In England you can also refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies.
Is Qwell therapy?
Qwell offers early support. Practitioners can talk things through with you, help you set goals and point you to other services if you need longer-term treatment.
What if I have panic attacks?
Panic attacks are frightening but common, and support can help. Talk to a practitioner on Qwell or your GP. If you have chest pain or are worried it could be something physical, call 111 or 999.
Is it really free?
Yes. Your local NHS, council or police and crime commissioner pays for Qwell, so it's free for people who live in that area. Choose your area when you sign up to check.
Who will know I've used Qwell?
Qwell is confidential. You sign up with a username, so you don't need to share your real name. Our privacy and safety page explains the rare situations where we would share information to keep you safe.
Last reviewed October 2026.