Kyoto Garden/Holland Park/Kensington Library
If you find yourself in crisis it is important to know that there are people available to help you…
There may be times when you find yourself or someone that you care for in extreme difficulties and you may need help very quickly. Locally and nationally, there are people and systems set up to deal with these types of situations.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health problem but are not in immediate danger:
- The GP is often a good place to start talking about mental health problems. GPs can treat and refer on to other services if need be. They can also check for any underlying health problems that may be contributing to the difficulties
- If you have a mental health professional that you see regularly, contact them and make them aware of the situation. They may be able to offer you additional support to manage the crisis
If you or someone you know is in serious crisis and needs help:
- If you, or the person concerned has a crisis card with information based on previous experience, get that now and contact your/their support people
- Contact the GP or social services, both of whom can arrange for an assessment under the mental health act, if needed.
- Alternatively and if it is safe to do so, go to the nearest accident and emergency department
If you are feeling suicidal and need to talk to someone immediately:
The Samaritans 08457 90 90 90
24 hour helpline. Calls are free.
NHS Direct 0845 4647
NHS is a national helpline providing medical advice and information. Calls are free.
If you have taken an overdose or you are about to seriously harm or kill yourself:
- Call 999 immediately. The call is free. You can ask to stay on the line while you wait for help to arrive
- Alternatively and if you are able, go to your nearest accident and emergency department. For A&E services in Kensington & Chelsea, see below)
If you know someone who is in immediate danger of seriously harming or killing themselves or endangering someone else:
- Call 999 immediately and ask for assistance. Calls are free
Kensington & Chelsea Emergency Mental Health Services (Hospitals)
North
St Charles Hospital,
Mental Health Unit,
Exmoor Street,
London, W10
24 hour emergency service
Telephone 020 8206 7000 or
020 8969 2488 and ask for the duty psychiatrist
South
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
Accident and emergency
Ask to speak to the duty psychiatrist
Tel: 020 8746 8000
Kensington & Chelsea Social Services
To contact the duty social worker in your area, please see below
Emergency Social work Team - out of hours
Monday to Friday 5pm to 9am; 24 hours on Saturday and Sunday and public holidays
Tel: 020 7373 2227