New 24-hour mental health service
People struggling with their mental health can now get free, confidential support 24 hours a day through a new text and online service called ChatHealth.
The facility is designed for people who may find it hard to talk on the phone or attend face-to-face appointments. You can send a message and talk with a trained mental health professional, who can offer support, advice and guidance when you need it.
People can choose the option that feels right for them – see below.
By text message
- Adults (18+): 07312 263027
- Children and young people (under 18): 07480 635303
This service is free however text messages may be charged at a network’s standard rate. Check with mobile providers for details.
Online chat
- Adults: https://chathealth.nhs.uk/start-a-chat/h/LincsMentalHealth
- Under 18s: https://chathealth.nhs.uk/start-a-chat/h/LincsCYPMentalHealth
“The team aims to respond within two hours. When you send a message, you’ll receive an automatic reply to let you know it’s been received. You can choose to stay anonymous, although you may be asked for some basic details to help support you,” explained a spokesperson for service providers Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
You can use ChatHealth if you’re feeling distressed or need urgent mental health support. This might include:
- Big or sudden changes in your mood
- Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope
- Anxiety, stress or worry
- Struggling to look after yourself
- Withdrawing from people or daily life
- Thoughts of self-harm or feeling life isn’t worth living
- Concerns about a friend or family member
What ChatHealth can and can’t do
ChatHealth provides support, advice and guidance, but it cannot prescribe or review medication, offer face-to-face appointments, make diagnoses, arrange hospital admissions or carry out welfare checks.
For more information, visit www.chathealth.nhs.uk.
