A new way for people to access the right support in a mental health crisis has been introduced across the North West. 

Anyone needing urgent mental health support can now call NHS 111 and select the mental health option for 24/7 access to urgent support. 

The service continues to be provided by the same organisation, that is not changing, there is just a new telephone number to call. 

To allow everyone to get used to the new process, existing local freephone crisis service numbers will continue to be active to make sure people always get the support they need. Once processes are embedded and fully operational, there will be a national public launch promoting NHS111 mental health option later in the year. 

In the meantime, if a person’s mental or emotional state gets worse quickly, this can be referred to as a mental health crisis or a mental health emergency. If this happens, it is important to get help quickly.  

A mental health crisis can mean different things to different people, but often means that you no longer feel able to cope or be in control of your situation. It can cause significant disruption to your life and your ability to function. 

For now, callers will be able to access mental health support either via NHS 111 and select the mental health option or existing local helpline if you are worried about: 

• Severe changes to your mood 

• Withdrawing from people (close family, friends, or work colleagues) 

• Not taking care of yourself like you usually would 

• Having increased thoughts about your life not being worth living 

• Excessive worry 

• Feeling out of control or unable to cope 

• Feeling anxious about leaving the house 

• Hearing voices or seeing things that others can’t 

• Thinking about harming yourself. 

If you or someone else have physically harmed themselves, or if their life is at risk, then you should still call 999 or go to A&E. 

NHS 111 select mental health option is for all ages, including children and young people and those with neurodevelopmental needs. You can call for yourself, or someone else.