Don’t Suffer in Silence this Christmas

Mental health crisis services are open in Hampshire throughout Christmas period.

Christmas is traditionally a time for friends, family and good cheer, but for many of us Christmas can be a difficult time that adds extra pressure and stress to our lives and can increase feelings of isolation.

This festive season, Southern Health is reminding Hampshire’s residents they aren’t alone, and anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can get help from a mental health professional over the Christmas period.

Our NHS 111 Mental Health Triage Service provides advice, support and guidance, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone living in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk and ask to speak to the NHS Mental Health Triage Service. They have a wide range of skills, including on the phone brief psychological support and has access to key services and organisations that can offer mental health support to people in their time of need. 

A range of support lines, web chats and drop in centres are also available for all people to access in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight - see here for more information. 

For less urgent mental health help, our italk service – which provides access to psychological therapies for people suffering from low mood, depression and anxiety – is open as usual over the festive period, Monday to Friday excluding bank holidays. People can self-refer to the service by calling 023 8038 3920, without having to first visit their GP.

Dr Steve Tomkins, Southern Health’s Medical Director, said: “Christmas can be a lonely time for many people and we want to let our local residents know that we will be offering help and support throughout the festive period.

“Feelings of loneliness, especially around the festive period, can have a negative impact on a person’s mental health, so I urge anyone who is worried about a friend or neighbour being on their own this Christmas to pop in and see them for a quick chat over a cup of tea and a mince pie. This small gesture really could make all the difference.”

For general mental health advice and ideas on little things you can do to improve your mental health – take a look at www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/

Charitable organisation, The Samaritans will also be available to talk to during a crisis, 24 hours a day throughout the Christmas period. The Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or by email at: jo@samaritans.org.