Where to go for mental health crisis support this winter

A mental health crisis is when you feel at breaking point, and you need urgent help.

You may be feeling extremely anxious; feeling suicidal, or self-harming; you may also be hearing voices or feeling very paranoid.

If you or someone you know experiences a mental health crisis this winter, or needs urgent mental health support, there are a number of mental health crisis services across Greater Manchester that you can turn to.

NHS 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Helpline

The NHS 24/7 mental health crisis helpline is for people of all ages who need urgent mental health support for themselves or someone they know. They are available free of charge, day or night, 365 days per year.

Run by experienced mental health professionals, they will:

• Listen to you and help you work through immediate problems
• Work with you to find ways to move forward or suggest ways of working
• Give you information about, or refer you on to, other services that may be helpful.

If you live in Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport or Tameside, call 0800 014 9995.

If you live in Bolton, Salford, Trafford, Manchester, or Wigan, call 0800 953 0285.

Other helplines

These services offer confidential support from trained volunteers.

Call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours

If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.

Other local services – Rochdale

Rochdale - Listening Lounge (provided by Mind) is a walk-in service for any adult in Rochdale experiencing mental health difficulties. You can receive help and advice from peer support workers, or just have a calm space to attend to feel safe.

Self Help

Practical advice for anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope.

Dr Miranda Budd, associate network director for psychological therapies at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Ask for help, share the dilemma. Whether this is from someone within your personal life or a professional, talking to someone about how you are feeling is a really important step towards feeling better.

“Don’t be by yourself. Sometimes when we don’t feel so good, this can be hard. It may feel like you want to avoid others, places and people. However, even if you don’t feel like it, often being with someone else can help to lift your mood.

“A change of scenery can also help. Go outside for a walk, the change in temperature, some fresh air and a bit of exercise can be beneficial.

“When you are feeling calmer, it’s a good idea to make a plan for if, and/ or when there is a next time you aren’t feeling so great. Sharing this plan, or even creating this plan with an important other in your life can also be a good idea- so they know how to help when you are struggling.”