Mental health support is now available through the NHS 111 service

The National Health Service has announced that it is offering more support for those with mental health problems through its NHS 111 service.

Across England, patients seeking support for mental health issues can now use the NHS 111 telephone number to get 24/7 access to help.

The service now provides access to trained mental health professionals to help with guidance and counseling for patients.

This includes arranging face-to-face social support or providing access to other services such as safe spaces and dedicated support services.

Health services in the South East have seen a rapid influx of mental health services during the outbreak, but a new initiative means these will be consolidated into a single access point across the country. and England.

Mental Health Lead for NHS South East Adanna Williams said: “In the South East we are committed to putting our residents first and recognizing that there is no health without mental health.

“We have demonstrated our commitment to improving access to support for mental health needs.

“The launch of this service will help those with mental health problems get support when you need it most.”

He explained: “You can now call the 111 service 24 hours a day for access to mental health support services making it easier than ever to get professional help.”

NHS Director of Mental Health Claire Murdoch said: “Reforming mental health services and expanding access has been one of our top priorities.

“Demand is increasing from this epidemic, and our latest figures show that mental health services are treating one million people a year compared to six years ago .

“While the NHS has made great strides during the pandemic with local services setting up their own mobile phone lines, we want to move forward to make it as easy as possible for people to access services service if they are in trouble.

“In doing so I am very proud that we will be one of the first countries to offer free support to people with a 3-digit number.

He explained: “The new interactive service can give patients who need to speak to someone urgently the opportunity to be listened to by a trained member, who can direct them to the right place.

So, if you or someone you know needs urgent mental health support, please call 111, and select the mental health option.

Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, said: “As part of our plans to help reform the health system we want to ensure we give mental health the same attention as physical health. .

“For the first time, there’s one number you can call if you’re feeling unwell or worried about your mental health to get the help you need.

“In addition, we are prioritizing mental health by hiring an additional 8,500 mental health workers to reduce delays and provide faster treatment as well as reforming the Mental Health Act.”

Rethink Mental Illness Chief Executive Mark Winstanley said: “Mental health problems are stressful and debilitating, and getting help as soon as possible is vital.

“The last thing people need when they or a loved one is in trouble, is not knowing exactly where to turn.

“The NHS has made it easier to get immediate support through 111, building on existing provision through crisis lines.

“We welcome this important step, and we hope it will make it easier for people to get the help they need.”

More information about the NHS 111 service is available at: 111.nhs.uk