Mental Health Services available over the Festive Period

Mental Health problems don’t disappear over the festive period, they can often get worse. There are many campaigns and charities set up to help people with mental ill health so, no one needs to suffer alone. Many of the following advice lines are available all over the festive season. 

Mind https://www.mind.org.uk/

Call: 0300 123 86463

Mind volunteers are available to provide information on a range of topics including:

• types of mental health problems
• where to get help
• medication and alternative treatments

Thousands of people are expected to call Mind Infoline this December. Mind understands that Christmas can be a really challenging time of the year for many and living with mental illness can heighten this more. If you’re struggling, or know someone who is, the Mind helpline is available to provide support over the festive season.

Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/

Call: 116 123

The Samaritans offer a safe place for you to talk any time you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you. They provide the same support to people with mental health issues as they do for anyone else.

The Samaritans are available 24/7 and can be contacted when other services are closed or unavailable. Samaritans volunteers will be available all over the festive period, for anyone who needs to talk.

Last year, the Samaritans received around 244,000 calls during the Christmas period from people in the UK and Ireland.

Rethink Mental Illness https://www.rethink.org/

Call: 0300 5000 927

Rethink mental illness believe a better life is possible for millions of people affected by mental illness.

The Rethink Mental Illness Advice Service offers practical help on issues such as the Mental Health Act, community care, welfare benefits, debt, criminal justice and carers rights. They also offer general help on living with mental illness, medication, care and treatment.

SANEline  http://www.sane.org.uk/

Call: 0300 304 7000

SANE runs a national, out of hours mental health helpline to provide emotional support and information to anyone who is affected by mental illness, including families, friends and carers. They are open every day of the year from 4.30pm-10.30pm.

If you or someone you know is suffering with mental illness, contact any of these charities to make sure you aren’t alone this festive season.