Overview

Having a mental health crisis means different things to different people.  You might feel so distressed that you want to harm yourself, or someone else.  You might hear unpleasant voices or feel that people are watching you or trying to hurt you.  It could help to tell someone you trust, maybe a family member or a friend.  They can be with you and help you decide what to do.  They can also contact services on your behalf.

If you are in contact with a mental health service:

Check your care plan, if you have one, and:
During office hours contact your care coordinator or the duty number for the team that is supporting you.
Out of hours call 0800 731 2864 to speak to our mental health crisis line.

If you need urgent help:

Call 111 to speak to the free NHS helpline for anyone with an urgent healthcare need. Tell them if you need a translator.

Call 0800 731 2864 to speak to our mental health crisis line for people in Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark.

If you are with someone who has attempted suicide, call 999 and stay with them until the ambulance arrives.

The NHS Choices website includes help for suicidal thoughts and advice from the Samaritans about how to start a difficult conversation if you are worried about someone.

Crisis contacts for health and social care professionals:

Emergency services and out of hours: contact our Acute Referral Centre on 020 3228 6272

During office hours contact your local assessment and liaison team:

Lambeth
Our assessment and liaison team has been replaced with Lambeth Single Point of Access
Email: [email protected]
Call: 0800 090 2456

Lewisham
Email: [email protected]
Call: 020 3228 9200

Croydon
Email: [email protected]
Call: 02032280365

Southwark North (Maudsley Hospital)
Email: [email protected]
Call: 020 3228 9454

Southwark South (Maudsley Hospital)
Email: [email protected]
Call: 020 3228 9454

The SLAM self-harm leaflet and the Borough crisis leaflets are available on the website.