What to do if you’re in crisis
If you or someone you know is in crisis, there are many places you can turn to for help.
I am having thoughts of suicide and believe that I am in immediate danger:
- To talk to someone who is trained to listen, contact Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90. They are open 24 hours a day.
- Alternatively you can contact the bi-lingual CALL advice and listening line. CALL is open 24/7 and staff are trained to listen and have information on local crisis services.
- If you have a crisis card get that now and contact your support people.
I have taken an overdose or I am about to seriously harm or kill myself:
- Call 999. The call is free. You can ask to stay on the line while you wait for help to arrive.
- Alternatively you can go to the nearest Accident and Emergency department (A&E)
I fear that I am about to seriously harm or kill another person:
- Call 999 and ask for help.
- Alternatively you can go to the nearest hospital A&E.
Someone I know is in immediate danger of seriously harming themselves or endangering someone else:
- Contact social services on 01352 702464 (day) or 08450 533116 (evenings and weekends). They can arrange for the person to be assessed under the Mental Health Act. Please be aware that this could lead to the person being sectioned in hospital and treated without their consent.
- Call 999 if you cannot get through anywhere else
Further information
- If these situations do not describe you at the moment, other forms of help might be more appropriate. For further information, please follow the links to:
How to cope with suicidal feelings
How to help someone who is suicidal
Factsheet: Crisis services
Mind trouble shooters: Panic attacks