NHS 111 – option 2 for crisis mental health support
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can now call NHS 111 and select option 2 for 24/7 access to crisis mental health support.
The service is still provided by your local NHS mental health trust – that is not changing – it’s just a new telephone number to call.
To help you get the support you need, you will speak to a mental health advisor who will ask you some questions and listen to you. They can offer self-care advice and signposting over the phone, transfer you to the crisis service if needed or refer you to other local services.
There is now a simpler way for people to find the right support in a mental health crisis.
What is a mental health crisis?
If a person’s mental or emotional state gets worse quickly, this can be referred to as a mental health crisis or a mental health emergency. If this happens, it is important to get help quickly.
A mental health crisis can mean different things to different people, but often means that you no longer feel able to cope or be in control of your situation. It can cause a significant disruption to your life and your ability to function.
You should call NHS 111 and select option 2 for crisis mental health support if you are worried about:
- thoughts about your life not being worth living or about harming yourself
- feeling out of control or unable to cope
- feeling anxious about leaving the house
- hearing voices or seeing things that others can’t
If you or someone else have physically harmed themselves, or if their life is at risk, then you should still call 999 or go to A&E.
Other ways to get help with your mental health:
Free listening services
These services offer confidential support from trained volunteers. You can talk about anything that’s troubling you, no matter how difficult:
- Call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: [email protected] for a reply within 24 hours
- Text “SHOUT” to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line, or text “YM” if you’re under 19
If you’re under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.
These services will only share your information if they are very worried about you or think you are in immediate danger.
Information:
Coping during a crisis
The mental health charity Mind has information on ways to help yourself cope during a crisis.
This includes calming exercises and a tool to get you through the next few hours.
Non-urgent advice: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe
– A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone’s time.
Call: 999