Coping in a Mental Health Crisis
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, know that you are not alone, and help is available (see below). While things may feel overwhelming right now, there are steps you can take to stay safe and regain a sense of control.
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Immediate Steps to Help You Cope:
✅ Pause and Breathe – Take slow, deep breaths. Inhale for four seconds, hold for four, and exhale for four. This can help calm your mind and body.
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✅ Reach Out for Support – Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or a crisis helpline. You don’t have to go through this alone.
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✅ Ground Yourself – Use your senses to reconnect with the present moment. Hold something soft, listen to calming music, or drink a warm beverage.
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✅ Remind Yourself This Will Pass – No matter how intense your emotions feel, they are temporary. You have overcome challenges before, and you will get through this too.
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✅ Seek Professional Help – If you’re feeling unsafe or struggling to cope, reaching out to a crisis line (below) or emergency services can provide the support you need.
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You deserve care, support, and kindness—especially from yourself. If you need immediate help, please contact a crisis helpline or a mental health professional.
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You are not alone. Help is here when you need it.
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Phone 111 and follow the Mental Health option.
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The Samaritans – 116 123
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Papyrus - 0800 068 4141(also has a webchat function available at https://www.papyrus-uk.org/papyrus-hopeline247/
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The Crisis Team (Chorley) - 0800 953 0110 - If you don't live in the area a quick google for your specific areas crisis team should provide the number or call your GP and ask (or again 111)
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The Initial Response team - 0800 013 0708 (This is is a 24-hour triage service that provides access to mental health care, advice, support, and treatment. Anyone who lives across Central & West Lancashire who feels that they need urgent mental health care or has an enquiry about their routine care can access it.
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The Haven (mental Health support) - 0330 008 3672
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SANEline – (Out of hours mental health support 4:30pm – 10:30pm) –0300 304 7000
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CALM - Helpline 0800 58 58 58, web-chat - www.thecalmzone.net/suicide-prevention-helpline or whatsApp (scan the QR code at https://www.thecalmzone.net/whatsapp. open 5pm - midnight
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Text SHOUT to 85258 24/7 to have a text conversation and get support.
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RightLines – Webchat support for young people who self harm available Monday – Friday 4pm – 10pm at https://rightlinesuk.org/web-chat/
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The Mix – https://www.themix.org.uk/get-support/speak-to-our-team. Support for 11-25yr olds including counselling and a crisis messenger service accessed 24/7 by texting THEMIX to 85258.