04 Jan 2010
Update, 16 November 2010: Stressline is no longer in service. This news item will remain visible for information only.
NHS Stressline tackles New Year money blues - 0300 1232000. For all other health enquiries please call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
As we enter 2010, people who are worried about debt, housing and employment can get practical and emotional support from a new NHS helpline.
NHS Stressline callers will receive practical information and advice from trained health advisors. If they are suffering from stress, anxiety or depression, they will be directed to a wider package of financial and mental health support. The Stressline number is 0300 123 2000 and it is open daily from 8am-10pm.
Jacqui Jedrzejewski, NHS Direct Mental Health Lead
“We know the credit crunch hits people in many different ways, and job insecurity, redundancy, debt and money problems can all cause feelings of distress and helplessness.
“Throughout this pilot stage we’ve seen some very poignant examples of how the NHS Stressline has already helped people. Like the 49-year-old man who had just lost his job and felt unable to tell his wife, so continued to act as if he was going to work every day whilst secretly contemplating suicide. Or the 28-year-old woman who was stressed and anxious about her mounting debt due to a cut in her hours at work and felt she didn’t have anywhere to turn.
“In these cases, our trained health advisors listened and offered sympathetic, relevant support and advice that helped them both take control of their situation.
“Additionally, the lady was pointed to a service which could provide specific help with her finances and in the gentleman’s case, as with anyone feeling extremely distressed or suicidal, an NHS Direct nurse advisor was available for a further assessment.”
