If someone's life is at risk, or you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe, the NHS says to call 999 or go to A&E now. For urgent help that is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option. You can call Samaritans free on 116 123. The NHS says a mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one, and you will not be wasting anyone's time. For help that is not urgent, you can see a GP, or in England refer yourself to NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression without a diagnosis. The Lift College Mental Health Awareness Training course covers how to support someone and where to point them.
In an emergency
The NHS says call 999 or go to A&E now if:
- someone's life is at risk, for example they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose
- you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 for an ambulance, and bring any medicines you take. At A&E, staff should refer you to a liaison psychiatry service or a local mental health crisis team.
Urgent help that is not an emergency
Use NHS 111 online, or call 111 and select the mental health option. NHS 111 will tell you the right place to get help, and you may be able to speak to a trained mental health professional over the phone. You can also ask for an urgent GP appointment.
Someone to talk to now
The NHS lists free, confidential listening services run by trained volunteers:
- call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans
- if you are under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline
The NHS says these services only share your information if they are very worried about you or think you are in immediate danger.
Help that is not urgent
A GP can advise on treatments and help you access mental health services. In England, people aged 18 or over (16 or 17 in some areas) can refer themselves to NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression, without being diagnosed with a condition. They may help with persistent low mood, constant worry, panic attacks, phobias, OCD and PTSD.
Supporting a colleague
HSE advises managers to talk to an employee as soon as they notice difficulties. If the person does not want to speak to you, suggest someone else, such as an employee assistance programme, occupational health or their own GP. Stay calm, and agree with them which issues are most urgent.
Training
Lift College Mental Health Awareness Training is 1 hour in 6 modules, with a CPD Standards Office accredited certificate the same day you pass.
Frequently asked questions
Who do I call in a mental health crisis?
What is the NHS 111 mental health option?
Who can I talk to about my mental health?
Can I refer myself for therapy on the NHS?
Is a mental health emergency as serious as a physical one?
How can I help a colleague who is struggling?
Sources checked
- NHS: Where to get urgent help for mental health (checked 15 November 2026)
- NHS: Find NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression (checked 15 November 2026)
- HSE: Advice for managers on mental ill health conditions (checked 15 November 2026)
- Lift College: Mental Health Awareness Training (checked 15 November 2026)