Tel: 07886 045515

e-mail: talk@rozscounsellingcorner.co.uk

Support for Parents: What to Do if Your Child Is in Crisis

If your child or teenager is struggling with their mental health, it can feel overwhelming—and you may not always know what to do next. The most important thing to remember is: you are not alone, and there is help available.

If your child is at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others, call 999 or take them to your nearest A&E.

Click here for trusted services offering urgent mental health support for children and young people

Helpful Tips for Parents in a Crisis Situation

  • Stay calm and listen without judgment – Create a safe space for your child to open up. Try not to interrupt or problem-solve right away.
  • Let them know you’re there – Reassure them that you care, and they don’t have to face things alone.
  • Seek professional support – Contact your GP or local mental health services for longer-term support.
  • Reach out for your own support – It’s okay for you to need help too. Caring for someone in crisis can be overwhelming.

Support Helplines for Parents & Carers

YoungMinds Parent Helpline

📞 0808 802 5544 (Mon–Fri, 9:30am–4:00pm)
📧 Use the email webform on their site
🌐 www.youngminds.org.uk/parent
Support and advice for parents worried about a child or young person’s mental health. Staffed by trained advisors who understand what you’re going through.

NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)

📞 0808 800 5000 (Mon–Fri, 8am–10pm | Weekends 9am–6pm)
📧 help@nspcc.org.uk
🌐 www.nspcc.org.uk
Advice and support for parents and carers worried about a child’s wellbeing, whether it’s mental health, abuse, neglect or behaviour.

Family Lives

📞 0808 800 2222 (Mon–Fri, 9am–9pm | Weekends, 10am–3pm)
🌐 www.familylives.org.uk
Emotional and practical support on all aspects of parenting and family life. Covers behaviour, school problems, relationships, and mental health.

Action for Children Parent Talk

🌐 www.parent-talk.org.uk
Confidential 1-to-1 chat with a parenting coach and a library of helpful articles on supporting your child’s emotional and mental wellbeing.

Contact – For Families with Disabled Children

📞 0808 808 3555
🌐 www.contact.org.uk
Support for parents caring for children with disabilities or long-term health conditions, including emotional wellbeing advice and guidance.

Samaritans

📞 116 123 (Free, 24/7)
🌐 www.samaritans.org
Emotional support for anyone struggling to cope—including parents under pressure or worried about a loved one. You’re not alone.