Mental Health Crisis Line (MHCL) is available to residents of Lancashire and South Cumbria as national reports reveal a record number of people are suffering with their mental health.
National figures released by The Royal College of Psychiatrists have reported an increasing amount of children and adults seeking help from the NHS last year for issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and those suffering a mental health crisis.[1] The report also highlighted the sharp rise in mental ill health that began after the first lockdown, in an analysis of NHS and Office for National Statistics data.[2]
Our MHCL, which launched in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, has so far supported 4,623 local residents, with 137 of those under the age of 18.
The MHCL 24/7 phone line simplifies the process of contacting existing mental health services with a single phone number, putting the caller through triage and assessment before referring them as needed.
Service Manager for the Mental Health Crisis Line, Lorraine Khalaf, said:
“Mental health issues are hard for anyone, but the recent pandemic has played a huge part in affecting people’s wellbeing. We see a lot of discussion in the media about mental health and the importance of reaching out. When people are struggling it doesn’t necessarily mean they know what to do or who to contact.
That’s why our Mental Health Crisis Line can help and direct people to the most appropriate services in their local area for ongoing mental health support.”
Run by trained mental health professionals, the crisis line is confidential and offers help, advice, mental health assessments, referrals and access to wider mental health services, for people of all ages.
Anyone in mental health crisis, or needing advice for a loved one, can call 0800 953 0110, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
[1] Denis Campbell, (April 9, 2021). Extent of mental health crisis in England at ‘terrifying’ level. Retrieved from The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/apr/09/extent-of-mental-health-crisis-in-england-at-terrifying-level
[2] Denis Campbell, (April 9, 2021). Extent of mental health crisis in England at ‘terrifying’ level. Retrieved from The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/apr/09/extent-of-mental-health-crisis-in-england-at-terrifying-level
