Crisis situation

If there is an emergency, the quickest and safest way to get help is to call 999 or your local social services.

If you need assistance or advice and you’re sure that the emergency services and social services are not required, go to your local accident and emergency department or contact your GP (they may have an out-of-hours service available).

If you are in doubt as to which service is appropriate don’t hesitate to call 999. If someone is in crisis, their mental state may have deteriorated rapidly to an extent that could lead to serious injury or attempted suicide.

The NHS (which includes Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and social services have been designed to respond to this kind of crisis. 

A crisis situation, although very distressing, can be a turning point. Having hit rock bottom, a crisis can help some people experiencing severe mental distress to begin to think about positive change.

The Parents Information Service is not a crisis service.  We are, however, able to offer information to explore how a child or young person’s mental health difficulties might be managed in the longer-term. 

The Parents Information Service could support you to understand what steps you can take to prevent further crisis