Christmas and New Year can be difficult for some people. If you are struggling with your mental health, or are worried about someone else, support is available.

This guide lists urgent mental health helplines and services across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, and Wolverhampton that are open during the festive period.

A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical emergency. You will not be wasting anyone’s time.

Help in a crisis

If you find yourself in a mental health crisis, it can be difficult to know what to do.

NHS 111 offers urgent mental health support through a dedicated mental health option.

  • Call NHS 111 and select option 2 for mental health support
  • You can also text 07860 025 281 if you prefer not to speak on the phone

Specially trained mental health staff will listen to your concerns, assess your needs, and help you access the most appropriate support in your local area.

This service is available if you need urgent help, advice, or someone to talk to.

Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

  • Someone’s life is at risk, for example they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose
  • You do not feel able to keep yourself or someone else safe

Face-to-face mental health support

We understand that the festive season can be a challenging time. Our Sanctuary Hubs will remain open as usual throughout the festive period.

The Sanctuary Hubs offer emotional support for adults who are experiencing distress, need reassurance, or would benefit from being listened to.

  • No appointment is required
  • You can drop in during opening hours

If you would prefer to book an appointment, this can be arranged via the Black Country 24/7 Urgent Mental Health Helpline by calling NHS 111 and selecting option 2, or by texting 07860 025 281.

Sanctuary Hub locations

  • Dudley: DY1 Community Centre, DY1 1RT
  • Sandwell: Hope Place, 321 High Street, B70 8LU
  • Walsall: The Sanctuary, 1 Queens Parade, WS3 2EX
  • Wolverhampton: 84 Salop Street, WV3 0SR

Festive opening hours

  • Monday to Friday: 6:00pm – 11:00pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 noon – 11:00pm

Please note:

  • No referral is required
  • You must be aged 18+
  • You must live in or be registered with a GP in Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall, or Wolverhampton

Current service users

  • In hours (9am–5pm): contact your care coordinator or local Community Recovery Service
  • Out of hours (after 5pm, weekends or bank holidays): use the number provided by your mental health team or call the hospital switchboard on 01922 607000

If you need urgent support outside 9am–5pm:

  • Call the main switchboard on 01922 607000 and follow the automated options
  • Contact your out-of-hours GP service
  • Attend your local emergency department for urgent medical attention

Children and young people

For urgent mental health support for a child or young person in the Black Country, visit Urgent mental help for my child.

Useful resources and helplines for children and parents

Other mental health support

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