Where to get urgent help for mental health

If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, emotional distress, or grief, support is available. This guide outlines trusted services across the UK, including urgent care, listening support, and culturally sensitive counselling.

If you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

If you need immediate advice or assessment:

• Call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk and select the mental health option
• Request an urgent GP appointment for support and referrals
• In some areas, you may be able to self-refer to mental health services

• Samaritans
  📞 Call 116 123 (24/7, free)
  📧 Email jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours
  🌐 samaritans.org
  Emotional support for anyone in distress or feeling suicidal
• SHOUT Crisis Text Line
  📱 Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7, free)
  📱 Text YM if you're under 19
  🌐 giveusashout.org
  Confidential mental health support via text message
• Childline (for under 19s)
  📞 Call 0800 1111 (24/7, free)
  🌐 childline.org.uk
  Support for children and young people — calls won’t appear on your phone bill

These services will only share your information if they believe you’re in immediate danger or at serious risk.
 

 Find Qualified Counsellors

Search for registered professionals who follow ethical standards:

• BACP – British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
• UKCP – UK Council for Psychotherapy
• NCPS – National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society

Islamic and culturally informed support from qualified Muslim professionals.
🔗 mcapn.co.uk

Culturally aware counselling from therapists of Black, African, Asian, and Caribbean heritage.
🔗 baatn.org.uk