In Crisis?
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or something that makes you feel severely unsafe, distressed, or worried about your mental health, you can contact your local crisis service in Essex by calling NHS 111 and selecting the mental health option.
What happens when I call?
The call will be answered by an agent who will direct you to a trained mental health professional. They will be able to listen to your concerns and help you get the support you need.
With your permission, they can also access your electronic patient records to better meet your needs and to avoid you repeatedly having to tell us your situation.
They can offer advice over the phone, put you in contact with crisis services or refer you to local talking therapies.
Who can call?
You can call for yourself, or someone else.
NHS 111 is for all ages, including children and young people and those with neurodevelopmental needs.
If you’re deaf or have hearing loss, please use the following link to be connected to local crisis service – NHS 111 – SignVideo.
If you aren't able to make the call yourself, then anyone can call on your behalf - for example a friend, carer, loved one or even your GP.
You can also access NHS 111 online via 111.nhs.uk.
The service is available to anyone in England and facing a mental health crisis, which could include:
- 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.
By calling NHS 111, and selecting the mental health option, we can help to get you the urgent support you need for your mental health.
In emergency situations, where there is an immediate risk to life, you should continue to contact 999 or go to A&E.
National survey
Have you called 111 to access crisis mental health care and could you spare a few minutes to help improve the service?
If so, please scan the below QR code and complete a short survey before 15 July 2025.
