“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…” or so they say
Here at Smart TMS, we understand that Christmas can be stressful enough for most people, but unbearable for those suffering with mental illness.
We aren’t an emergency care provider, however we’ve put together a list of care providers who may be able to help you if you’re in crisis over the festive period.
What is a crisis?
A mental health crisis is when you feel like you’ve reached your breaking point mentally. You may feel suicidal, hopeless, worthless, paranoid, psychotic, acutely anxious or have the urge to self harm. A crisis can come about as a result of many mental health conditions, whether diagnosed or not. It’s important to know that you aren’t alone and that help is out there.
First and foremost, if you feel unable to keep yourself safe and feel that you may be having a mental health crisis, call 999 and ask for an ambulance or make your way to an Accident and Emergency department (A&E). If you’ve previously been in contact with your local Crisis team, you can contact them, too.
Other care providers who can offer support include:
- The Samaritans offer telephone support 24/7, 365 days a year. Call them on: 116 123.
- Contact NHS 111 by dialing 111 from the UK or 0845 46 47 from Wales.
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) offer support 365 days a year between 5pm and midnight. Call them on: 0800 585858.
- Use the Shout service by texting ‘shout’ to 85258 to receive text support.
No one can plan for a crisis, but by being prepared and knowing who to turn to, you might be able to help yourself or someone else if your/their mental health does deteriorate in such a way.