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'Help I'm in crisis'

How do I get help in a crisis? 

If you are upset and having thoughts and urges about hurting yourself, or ending your life then stop, take a deep breath and read this page. 

A crisis is any situation in which you feel you need urgent help. For example, you might feel in crisis if:

  • You are having suicidal thoughts and feelings
  • You are having thoughts about harming yourself
  • You have seriously hurt yourself
  • youngminds-logo (1).pngYou have taken more than the recommended amount of tablets (an overdose)

The table below gives some general information on how you can get help in a crisis:

What's happening Ways you can get help
You think you may act on suicidal feelings, or you have seriously harmed yourself

You are feeling extremely distressed, or are experiencing suicidal feelings

 

  • You can call the Childline on 0800 1111 (freephone) - they're there to listen to you

  • Whatever you're going through, you can call the Samaritans for support free at any time on 116 123 

  • You can use the 'I need urgent help' tool on the YoungMinds website for more options.

  • For free 24/7 confidential support text REFLECT to 85258.

  • If you are already in touch with a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) , you can contact them and ask how they can support you - they may have a crisis line you can call

  • You might find it helpful to read YoungMinds' information pages on coping with:

Text REFLECT to 85258 to start a free, confidential text conversation with a trained volunteer. Texting is anonymous and will not appear on your phone bill. You will not be charged for using this service.
For support while we connect you, visit: giveusashout.org/get-help/resources.
 

North Bedfordshire CAMHS

Telephone: 01234 893301

https://camhs.elft.nhs.uk/Conditions/Self-harm-and-suicidal-thoughts

South Bedfordshire/Luton CAMHS

Telephone: 01582 708140

https://camhs.elft.nhs.uk/Conditions/Self-harm-and-suicidal-thoughts

Milton Keynes CAMHS

Telephone: 01908 724228

 Milton Keynes CAMHS :: Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (cnwl.nhs.uk)

Email: cnw-tr.mkspcamhsspa@nhs.net    
You need medical help or advice fast, but it's not an emergency
  • You can contact your GP and make an appointment for as soon as possible

Let someone know you do not feel safe or are struggling (a parent/carer or professional helpline).

Remember:

There are people who will listen, help and support you through this; it’s ok to ask for help.

  1. Just like stormy weather, strong feelings and urges will pass; it will not always feel this bad.
  2. Thoughts are just thoughts, we do not have to follow them. There are many other ways of managing other than harming yourself.

Text REFLECT to 85258

Text REFLECT to 85258 to start a free, confidential text conversation with a trained volunteer.

What is reflect?
Reflect is a free, confidential and 24/7 text support service focused on supporting young people aged 11-25. However, there is no age limit on who can use reflect across Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. It is delivered by trained volunteers and clinicians who are available around the clock to listen and support anyone who is feeling anxious, lonely, overwhelmed or not quite themselves. It is part of the wider network of Shout services across the UK for anyone who needs advice or help.
 

How does reflect work?
To start a conversation, anyone can text (please don’t WhatsApp!) the word reflect (upper or lower case) to 85258. The service is free, anonymous and does not show up on phone bills. After sending the first message, texters receive four automated text messages before being connected to a trained volunteer. There is an aim to connect young people in greatest need within five minutes all others in 30 mins. At busy times it can take longer.
By text message, the volunteer will introduce themselves and ask the texter to share a bit more about how they are feeling. They will only need to share what they feel comfortable sharing - the volunteer will listen without judgement. Conversations tend to last up to one hour.
 

Will I be charged to use reflect?
No. It is free to text from all major UK networks: EE, O2, Three and Vodafone. These also include BT Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Virgin Mobile, iD Mobile, Sky, Telecom Plus, Lebara and GiffGaff.
Some Android phones, including the Samsung Galaxy, may issue a warning that you will be charged for sending a message. Provided you are on one of the networks listed above, this warning is incorrect and you will not be charged.
 

Why use reflect?
The goal of the conversation through reflect is to help texters reach a place of calm, with a plan of how to support themselves going forwards. As well as listening, volunteers may provide further resources or tools to help get them more expert support. The conversation will only end when the volunteer is sure the texter is calm and feeling better.

Reflect can help with issues such as:
• Anxiety
• Bullying
• Depression
• Loneliness or isolation
• Money worries
• Relationship problems
• Self-harm
• Stress
• Suicidal thoughts or feelings

How many times can I use reflect?
Reflect is a universal service and is open to all. The service can be used when feeling anxious, lonely, overwhelmed or if someone is not quite themselves. It is available 24/7.

For support while we connect you, visit: giveusashout.org/get-help/resources.
If your life is at risk, please call 999 for immediate help.
 

Mental health crisis support 24/7 

We have fully trained professionals ready to support young people across Bedford, Luton and Milton Keynes who are experiencing a mental health crisis. This is available 24 hours a day all year round by calling the following numbers. Anyone can use and access the service.  All numbers are free to call, you won’t be charged:

How does the service help?

The service helps by providing immediate access to advice and guidance to those requiring mental health support.  We can advise and direct you to the most appropriate services.

When should people contact the service?

The service is available 24/7. If you feel as though you’re in a mental health crisis or believe a friend or family member is then make that call.

How does the service help people who don’t speak English?

Don’t worry if English is not your first language. As well as working within a diverse multilingual team we also have access to an interpreting service.

What should people contacting for mental health crisis support expect?

You should firstly expect a friendly voice on the end of the line, someone who will listen to your concerns and will be able to work with you to get the most appropriate outcome. The call will be a two-way process so do expect some questions. The Mental Health Professional (MHP) will carry out an assessment and together you will devise a plan.

A&E Departments

 

There are CAMHS professionals available in A&E hospital department across BLMK every day from 9am - 9pm, seven days a week. Outside of these hours, you can speak to a trained mental health professional. Addresses are below:

Bedford Hospital A&E, South Wing, 1 Kempston Road, Bedford, MK42 9DJ

Luton & Dunstable Hospital A&E, Lewsey Road, Luton, LU4 0DZ

Milton Keynes University Hospital A&E, Standing Way, Eaglestone, Milton Keynes, MK6 5LD