Mental Health Support and Helplines

Sometimes people may experience an overwhelming need for mental health support during tough moments in their lives.

Below is a list of resources for those seeking assistance outside of clinical time with their therapist or other medical professional.

High risk assistance

If you feel that you or someone you know is in imminent danger of either hurting themselves or another person, please consider the following options:

• Contact emergency services on 999 (UK).
• Attend the Accident & Emergency unit at your nearest hospital.
• Call The Samaritans for free on 116 123 (open 24/7, all year).
• Text “SHOUT” to 85258 (UK) for the Shout Crisis support line or text “YM” for under-19s.
• Childline is available on 0800 111 (UK) for under-19s.

Moderate risk assistance

If your mental health does not require an immediate response, please consider the following options:

• NHS 111 (UK) (open 24/7, all year)
• Check your mental health symptoms (NHS website self-check questionnaire).
• Book an emergency appointment with a doctor at your local GP surgery.
• Mental health support charity MIND has details on ways to cope during a crisis.
• Under-19s can text “YM” to 85258 for the YoungMinds Crisis Messenger.

A mental health crisis happens when feelings or behaviours become overwhelming and make it impossible to cope or stay safe.

Key red flags include thoughts of suicide, self-harm, severe paranoia, hallucinations, and panic attacks that lead to an inability to function.

A crisis can manifest differently for everyone. Being alert to critical changes in behavior or mood is vital for early intervention.

Disclaimer

This website and therapist Kevin May are not an emergency service and do not assume clinical responsibility for anyone who uses these pages to access urgent mental health support.