Users reaching out to SHOUT mental health service doubles in pandemic

The number of people turning to the SHOUT mental health support service has doubled since the start of the pandemic.

The UK-wide network of more than 2000 volunteers support people via text message, and are now speaking to record numbers of people, from a range of age groups.

30% of the 1500 users each day are reaching out for the first time, a sign of the scale of the mental health crisis facing the nation as we move away from lockdown.

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Supporting people through text message

The SHOUT service, which can be accessed by texting SHOUT to 85258, was launched in 2019 and has had more than 500,000 conversations with people who are anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support.

But demand for the service increased significantly when lockdown struck, with volunteers receiving up to 1500 calls a day.

WATCH: CEO Victoria Hornby speaks to Senior Correspondent Mick Coyle about the SHOUT network, and receiving support from the #MentalHealthMinute on UK Radio

CEO Victoria Hornby told us the service was prepared for a rush of new callers, and its remote infrastructure allowed the service to operate as normal.

She said: "Text has been very good for people to reach out confidentially and silently without being overheard. It reduces the barriers, sometimes, when we are feeling distressed or worried. It's hard to get the words out, so being able to write it in a text has resonated with people."

Mental Health Minute

Shout's services have been highlighted by the UK Radio "Mental Health Minute" which was broadcast at 10.59am on Friday 14th May.

Star names including David Beckham, Joanna Lumley and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge featured, encouraging people to think about their mental health, and seek support if they need it.

The message was heard on more than 500 UK radio stations.

Victoria said: "Radio has been a constant companion through the pandemic. If you listen to news or music, it's been a way for people to understand what's happening, and to connect with other people.

"Anyone listening to the Mental Health Minute who is worried I hope they'll reach out. Anyone listening to the Mental Health Minute who is a bit worried about someone else, I hope they'll encourage them to reach out. We need to make it as normal as going to see your GP because you're not feeling well."

How to access mental health services

Speak to your GP if you are concerned about your, or a family members mental health.

You can access the SHOUT network by texting SHOUT to 85258.

Click on Every Mind Matters for other services that might be helpful for you or someone you know.

Find local mental health services using the Hub of Hope.