National Institute for Health and Care Research

Need help fast?

If you are concerned about your mental health or that of someone close to you, it is important to seek help.

In an emergency

  • Call 999, or go directly to your local Accident and Emergency Department

If it’s not a 999 emergency, but you need help fast you can:

  • Call NHS 111 (this is for when help is needed but you are not in immediate danger) 
  • Contact your GP and ask for an urgent appointment 

Support organisations

NHS 111
NHS Urgent Mental Health Helpline (England only)

This helpline offers mental health support and advice, help to speak to a mental health professional, and can arrange an assessment to help decide on the best course of care.

Childline logo
Childline

If you are under 19, you can contact Childline about anything, at any time. Whatever your worry, it’s better out than in. They are there to support you and help you find ways to cope. Visit their website for information on how to contact them by phone, email, or online chat.

Young Minds logo
Young Minds
Young Minds is a charity which provides support for those worried about a young person’s behaviour or mental health including a range of helpful information leaflets. They have a parent helpline and a crisis messenger for young people.

Papyrus logo
Papyrus
A national charity offering confidential advice and support to young people under the age of 35 experiencing suicidal thoughts, or for anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide. Their helpline service is available 24/7 to call (0800 0684141) or text (88247) or via the website.

Samaritans logo
Samaritans
Samaritans is available 24 hours a day to provide confidential emotional support for those experiencing stress, despair or suicidal thoughts. Call: 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.

Shout logo
Shout
Shout provides free, 24/7 text support for anyone across the UK experiencing a mental health crisis. All texts are answered by trained volunteers, with support from experienced clinical supervisors. Text SHOUT to 85258 or visit giveusashout.org.

Mind logo
Mind
Information on mental health problems, and where to get help near you. Helpline: 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm Mon-Fri excluding Bank Holidays) or visit www.mind.org.uk/.

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