East of England opens 24-hour mental-health text support

People across the East of England can now reach trained mental-health staff by text, WhatsApp or webchat at any hour. The free, confidential service opened on 4 November for adults and children who feel overwhelmed, anxious or unable to cope.

NHS commissioners say registered health and care professionals provide immediate support, practical coping steps and links to local services across six counties. People can start without a referral, which removes a common delay when speaking aloud or making a call feels difficult.

NXG Thrive explains that conversations are private unless safeguarding concerns require action, and the channel does not replace emergency care. Anyone in immediate danger should still call 999 or attend A&E.

The launch has no published outcome data yet, so its reach and effect need measuring. Even so, a quiet, round-the-clock route gives people another credible first step towards help, wherever they are in the region, including when other local services are closed.

Sources

• NHS Mid and South Essex — New crisis text service launches across East of England
• Independent supporting source