111 for Mental Health Posted or Updated on 8 Aug 2024

New NHS 111 service for mental health

We are making it easier for anyone in Kent and Medway experiencing an urgent mental health crisis to access specialist help.  From 2 April 2024 all you need to do is call 111, and select option 2 for mental health when prompted. This replaces the current Kent and Medway Mental Health Crisis Line number, which from midnight 1 April 2024 will no longer operate. 

Please only call 111 and select option 2 if you think you are experiencing an urgent crisis and the KMPT team caring for you are not available. 

If you are concerned that your, or someone else’s, life is at risk please immediately dial 999.

What could an urgent mental health crisis feel like?

We know that experiencing an urgent crisis may mean different things to different people. But you could be in crisis if:

• You feel like you want to hurt yourself, or someone else
• You hear strange voices
• You feel that people are watching you or want to hurt you
• You are experiencing extreme distress that seems overwhelming or you can’t cope with day to day life

If you are a KMPT patient in a urgent mental health crisis

The quickest way of getting help is to contact KMPT.  Your Community Mental Health Team is available Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. If you are being supported by a Home Treatment Team they are open between 8am to 9.30pm, 7 days a week, and can arrange for support from 24/7 rapid response services if needed. 

If you think you are in an urgent mental health crisis outside these hours, please call 111, and choose option 2.

If you do not think you are experiencing an urgent crisis but are feeling mentally unwell, for example stressed or distressed, we understand this can be very difficult.  Our website contains information on the different services that can help.

These include:

• Mental Health Matters offer 24-hour phone support from compassionate helpline staff, trained in counselling skills (0800 107 0160)
• The Samaritans are available 24/7 every day of the year for anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide (freephone 116 123)
• Your GP
• Kent and Medway Safe Havens offer face to face, out of hours mental health support.  https://www.kmhealthandcare.uk/your-health/mental-health-and-wellbeing/safe-havens.

You might also want to talk to someone you trust, like a family member or a friend, so they can be with you and help you decide what to do. They can also contact services on your behalf.