If you are concerned about an immediate risk of harm – either to yourself or someone else – then phone 999.

As a remote service we understand that we may not be suitable for everyone.

We prioritise patient safety and if there are any concerns, we will discuss this with our patients immediately and may advise them to consider a face-to-face service.

We can provide assessments and treatment, but only if we feel it is safe to do so.

What we cannot do, is help in an emergency.

However, if you feel that you can no longer cope or feel out of control of your situation, there is help available. It is really important that you get immediate expert assessment to identify the best course of action to prevent deterioration.

Where can I get help?

If you have a Crisis Line number, given to you by a health professional, please call it.

If you are already receiving support from mental health services you should follow your care plan.

Your plan will include details of who to contact when you find yourself in crisis.

If you cannot find your care plan, please contact your community mental health team and ask for your care coordinator or duty worker.

If you do not have a care plan please call your local crisis support services (click this link to find the nearest crisis support service to you).

Emergency GP appointment

If you need help, the GP should be the first point of contact to help you navigate the best NHS service for you. This may mean waiting until the next working day, if you are able to.

Visit your closest Accident & Emergency Department

If you feel you are unable to keep yourself or others safe and need immediate help, go to your nearest hospital with an Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department, where the mental health liaison team can help you (24 hours a day, 365 days of the year).

What to do if you need help but do not feel you are in crisis

If you are not in touch with local mental health services already, the Samaritans operate a free service if you want to talk to someone in confidence. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Call Samaritans on 116 123.

For urgent non-life threatening mental health care:

Call 111 (NHS 111 Service)

For instance:

  • if someone has self-harmed but it does not appear to be life-threatening, or is talking about wanting to self-harm
  • an existing mental health problem where symptoms have worsened
  • a mental health problem experienced for the first time

Other useful resources

(Please note these services offer support and advice and are free of charge)

No Panic
www.nopanic.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 772 9844 (10am – 10pm Daily)

MIND
www.mind.org.uk
MIND Infoline 0300 123 3393 provides information and signposting services and is available Weekdays from 9am – 6pm excluding Bank Holidays.

SANEline
Telephone: 0300 304 7000 (Open 4pm – 10pm Daily)

The Calm Zone
www.thecalmzone.net
Telephone: 0800 585858 (Open 5pm – 12am Daily)

Give Us A Shout
www.giveusashout.org
Offers text support and can be contacted by texting the word SHOUT to 85258