SANEline: Free Phone Mental Health Crisis Support

## What is SANEline? SANEline is a national out-of-hours mental health helpline run by the charity SANE, providing specialist emotional support and information for anyone affected by mental illness. Operating from 4pm to 10pm every day of the year, SANEline fills a crucial gap in evening support when many other services have closed but people are often at their most vulnerable - coming home from work, facing lonely evenings, or struggling with anxiety spikes that intensify as the day winds down. Unlike general listening services, SANEline volunteers have specific knowledge about mental health conditions. They can provide information about symptoms, treatments, and services alongside emotional support, helping callers understand their experiences and options. ## Who Can Use SANEline? SANEline welcomes calls from people experiencing mental health difficulties themselves, as well as family members, carers, and friends who are concerned about someone else. The service supports people with any mental health concern, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and more. There's no need to have a diagnosis or be in crisis - you can call simply because you're struggling and need someone to talk to who understands mental health. ## How Do I Access SANEline? Call **0300 304 7000** between 4pm and 10pm, any day of the year. Calls are charged at local rates (usually included in phone packages). If you struggle with phone calls, SANE also offers Textcare (a text-based support service), an online support forum called SANEforums, and email support through Support@sane.org.uk. Visit sane.org.uk for full details of all services. ## What Should I Expect? When you call, you'll speak with trained volunteers and staff who specialise in mental health. They'll listen to your concerns, provide emotional support, and offer information about symptoms, treatments, and services if helpful. Calls are confidential and non-judgemental. There's no set call length - the focus is on providing the support you need. If you need ongoing peer connection, you can also join SANEforums to connect with others who understand.