If you or someone you know is facing a mental health emergency, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Crisis teams, A&E (Accident & Emergency), and NHS 111 each offer urgent help, but in different ways. Here’s how to choose the right support.

Quick guide

• Crisis team: Community-based, urgent mental health support, 24/7, may need a referral.
• A&E: Hospital-based, for immediate risk or physical harm, can lead to hospital admission.
• 111: 24/7 helpline, gives advice and directs you to the right service.
  
  

Crisis team

Crisis teams, sometimes called crisis resolution or home treatment teams, give urgent mental health support in the community. They help you manage a crisis at home, aiming to prevent hospital admission.

Support might include medication, regular visits, and links to longer-term care. Crisis teams are available 24/7, but response times can vary. You can reach them through NHS 111, your GP, or your local NHS trust.

Find out more about getting urgent help for your mental health on our I need urgent help page.

A&E (Accident & Emergency)

A&E is for immediate, life-threatening situations, especially if you have physical injuries (like self-harm or overdose) or are at risk of harming yourself or others.

Hospital staff will assess both your mental and physical health and may involve a mental health professional. You might be referred to a crisis team or admitted to a mental health ward if needed.

Learn more about how NHS mental health teams work on our community crisis and early intervention support page.

NHS 111

NHS 111 is a free helpline for urgent health advice. You can call or use their online service any time, day or night. They’ll ask questions and direct you to the right service for your needs, whether that’s a crisis team, A&E, or another option.

Read about getting help for someone in a mental health crisis on our carers hub.

You’re not alone

If you need urgent help, these services are here to listen and support you. For more advice, information, and support, visit our Get help now page or explore our resources for carers, friends, and family.