Shout – free mental health text based service here for you 24/7

Posted on January 8th, 2024

What is Shout? – Shout is a free, confidential 24/7 text-based service developed by Mental Health Innovations (a digital mental health charity) for those struggling to cope.  Advice is available for anyone struggling with a host of issues, including anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, abuse or assault, self-harm, bullying or relationship issues.

How is the service accessed? – To start a conversation, Wirral residents should text the word ‘shout’ to 85258

What happens next? – Once a conversation has been started, via 85258, the individual will receive 4 automated messages before being connected to a trained volunteer adviser. It usually takes around 5 minutes to be connected to an adviser.

The volunteer will introduce themselves and ask for more information around what prompted the text to shout. The text conversations work best when messages are sent back and forth, and usually last between 45-60 minutes.

The goal of the conversation is reach a calm and safe place, with a plan of how to support yourself going forwards.  As well as a listening ear the volunteers may provide further resources or signpost to further expert support.

The conversation will be brought to a close with the opportunity to reflect on any thoughts and feelings explored. The service is available 24/7 and can be contacted again if necessary.

Get help – free, 24/7, confidential mental health text support service | Shout 85258 (giveusashout.org)

If your life is at imminent risk, please call 999 for immediate help.

Alternatively see CWP Urgent Support website: https://www.cwp.nhs.uk/getting-help/need-urgent-help