NHS launches 24/7 mental health crisis support service

Money worries and mental health can often go hand-in-hand, and you can be left wondering who to turn to for help.

For the first time, the NHS is providing 24/7 mental health support through a single phone line for those experiencing a mental health crisis.

Anyone in a crisis or worried about a loved one can call 111, select the mental health option and speak to a trained professional. Children can contact the service too.  

NHS staff can arrange face-to-face community support and help callers find crisis cafes or safe havens, giving people an alternative place to stay (instead of in A&E or hospital admission).

All A&E departments in England have a psychiatric team available on standby for any specialist care needed.

Money worries & mental health

The stress that comes with money troubles can worsen your mental health, making it more difficult to earn and manage money.

It can be lonely or isolating if you don’t have enough money to do things with family and friends. And it’s a vicious cycle – you may end up spending more than you can afford to try and make yourself feel better.

Money worries can also impact your physical health if you stop being able to afford things like heating, adequate housing, medicine and food. This can also affect your mental health too.

If you’re struggling with a mental health condition like anxiety, depression, or obsessive compulsive disorder, you can contact NHS Talking Therapy Services and refer yourself online or by contacting your GP.

If there’s a serious risk to life, the NHS advises people to call 999.

Is debt affecting your mental health?

Being in debt can create a lot of stress if you’re unable to pay back what you owe.

Getting organised can make it easier to manage your money. For example, making a budget can help you keep track of your income and spending.

Make sure you’re claiming all the help you’re entitled to. You can get in touch with us if you’d like help with this or use our benefits calculator.

You’ll find more tips about how to manage stress caused by money troubles in our guide on money and mental health.  

Don’t struggle alone. If you get in touch with us online or give us a call, we can advise you on possible solutions if you’re in debt.

All the advice we give is free. Some of our debt solutions are free too, while others have a fee.