The Heads Up campaign encourages people to talk about mental health, and for people to treat mental health the same way they approach their physical fitness.
However, if you need more urgent support, Crisis Messenger text service provides free*, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. To get help with a range of issues, you can text HeadsUp to 85258.
Who’s on the other end of your text message?
We know finding the right support is important especially if you need someone to talk to right now. Crisis Messenger connects every texter to a trained volunteer who will chat with you by text. They will listen to you and help you think more clearly, enabling you to know that you can take the next steps to feeling better.
How does it work?
If you need some immediate support, text HeadsUp to 85258.
The trained Crisis Volunteer will introduce themselves, reflect on what you’ve said, and invite you to share at your own pace. You’ll text back and forth, only sharing what you feel comfortable with. By asking questions, listening to you and responding with support, they’ll help you sort through your feelings until you both feel you’re in a calm, safe place. You might be made aware of some other services that can provide you with further help, so you can continue to get support.
Crisis Messenger can help with urgent issues such as:
- Suicidal thoughts
- Abuse or assault
- Self-harm
- Bullying
- Relationship issues
Important information - Mobile Network Disclaimer*
It’s free and confidential to text Crisis Messenger from the following major networks:
EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, which also include - BT Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Virgin Mobile, iD Mobile, Sky, Telecom Plus, Lebara and GiffGaff.
Some Android phones issue a warning that you’ll be charged for texting us, however provided you’re on one of the networks listed above this warning is incorrect and you will not be charged.
If you text us from a network that is not on this list there is a possibility that you may be charged for the messages and that they may appear on your bill. This applies to a very small minority of operators.
It is not possible to text the service from some networks, which do not provide the capability to message short codes. These include Lyca mobile. If your message will not send, or if you do not receive an automated message in response, it is an indicator that the service is not working.
If in doubt, please contact your mobile phone network before texting, or email Shout below:
This service is powered by our trusted partners, Shout and Crisis Text Line.
