In my previous article, Taking Care of your Mental Health at Christmas, I suggested ways of helping yourself and others to cope in what can be a challenging time of year. Even with the best plans, the events of Christmas can trigger negative emotions and behaviours.

The challenge is that many groups, activities and support networks that are usually available also close at Christmas. If you are struggling, you might not want to disturb a friend’s festive celebrations by calling them up. So, who can you talk to if the need arises?

Fortunately, support is available, even on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. I have compiled a list of options. If things start to get difficult, get in touch with them.

Suicidal Thoughts

Stay Alive App – If you experience suicidal thoughts, download the Stay Alive App for information and ideas to help you to cope. Free from Google Play or the App Store. http://www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/find-help-now/stay-alive-app/

Samaritans    Call: 116 123      Email: [email protected]   Website: https://www.samaritans.org/

Call free in times of crisis – available 24 hours a day.

Papyrus                       Call: 068 41 41   Text: 07860 039967        Email: [email protected]

Support for anyone under 35-years-old with suicidal thoughts. Support services are available between 9am and midnight.

Facing Mental Health Challenges including Depression, Anxiety & Overwhelm

Shout               Text: 85258        Website: https://giveusashout.org/

Text for free, support is at hand 24 hours a day.

CALM Helpline          Call 0800 585858

This service operates daily between 5.00pm and midnight only.

SANEline        Email: [email protected]

Call: 07984 967708 – leave your name & number and they will call you back.

This service operates daily between 4.30pm and 10.30pm only.

NHS                   Call: 111              Website: www.nhs.uk

This non-emergency service can put you in contact with mental health support services

Feeling Lonely and Need Someone to Talk to

The Silver Line          Call: 0800 4 708090        Website: https://www.thesilverline.org.uk/helpline/

A support service for older people who want to talk, calls are free.

Childline         Call: 0800 1111                Website: https://www.childline.org.uk/get-support/contacting-childline/

Free and confidential support for children & young people.

Support Line              Call: 01708 765 200        Email: [email protected]

Red Cross      Call: 0808 196 3651

This service is available from 10am until 6pm only

Domestic Abuse

Refuge                         Call 0808 200 247           Website: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/

Free and confidential domestic abuse helpline

Men’s Advice Line  Call: 0808 8010327         Email: [email protected]

Free and confidential domestic abuse helpline for men available Mon – Fri 9am until 8pm. Emails are answered at weekends.

Alcohol-related Issues

Alcoholics Anonymous      Call: 0800 917 7650        Email: [email protected]

Support for those who know alcohol is affecting their ability to cope.

Financial Worries

Step Change               Online: https://www.stepchange.org/how-we-help/debt-advice.aspx

There is an option to talk through the form with someone in a 40min call.

Make Mental Health a Top Priority

Your usual support networks may not be available over Christmas, however, do not suffer in silence. These helplines are staffed by compassionate people who will listen without judgement. They can help you to find strategies, support and other services that get you back on track.

Remember, your mental health is a top priority.