Support available over Christmas

I'm repeating last year's post with some additional information. If it's a hard time for you, please get the support you need. And if you're in crisis, call 999 or go to A&E.

The Samaritans are available to talk 24 hours a day, every day. Their helpline is 116 123 if you are calling from the UK, and it is free to ring. Other details are here: http://www.samaritans.org/

If this is a difficult time for you because of bereavement, Cruse www.cruse.org.uk/ have extra, trained volunteers on their helpline over the holidays. The helpline is 0808 808 1677 and it is open from 9.30am until 5pm from 25th - 26th December and 30th December, 9.30am until 8pm from the 27th - 29th December and New Year's Eve, and 9.30am until 5pm on New Year's Day.

Beat (the eating disorder charity) has kept their helpline open over Christmas: 4pm-8pm on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day. The number is 0345 634 1414 - and it will be open from 4pm-10pm on the bank holidays. You can also visit their website www.b-eat.co.uk

Napac napac.org.uk/ supports adult who have experienced child abuse. Their helpline on 0808 801 0331 is usually open 10am-9pm Mon-Thu & 10am-6pm Fri (I can't see Christmas hours though).

Survivors UK supports men who have experienced rape or sexual abuse. www.survivorsuk.org/ways-we-can-help/ Their helpline is closed until 28th December, and then closed again from 1-2 January.

24-hour National Domestic Violence freephone helpline is available on 0808 2000 247. Other information is available here: www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk/

There are lots of reasons why people can feel less than merry over the holidays, especially if someone is alone, or feels alone. Mind has some ideas here for self-care and treatment if you are suffering: www.mind.org.uk/information-support/your-stories/support-at-christmas/#.WF-S4BuLSM8