People struggling with mental health issues are being urged to access services that provide vital support 24 hours a day.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board has highlighted the help available to anyone who needs advice and guidance, including those at risk of taking their own life.

The NHS111 mental health triage team can provide psychological aid over the phone, enabling people to receive care in the comfort of their home.

A Board spokesperson said: "The service ensures people have easy access to support at the right time - and in the right place for them. They can get mental health support before a problem becomes a crisis."

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Sara, 34, of Southampton, contacted the 111 team after she began to have suicidal thoughts.

She said: "I completed the online form and thought nothing more of it until my phone rang. I spoke to a nurse who didn’t make me feel dismissed or stupid - she treated me like a human being.

"She helped me calm down by doing some breathing exercises with me. I didn't think they would help, but they really did."

Ben, 22, from the New Forest, was also thinking of ending his life when he decided to call NHS111.

“I received a call back really quickly. This guy introduced himself and asked me how I was doing. It was a breath of fresh air - we chatted like old friends. I came off the phone laughing," he said.

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People who need help can also turn to the Shout text service, which also operates 24/7.

They can text 'HANTS' to 85258 to speak via text with Shout's trained volunteers, who provide a free and confidential messaging support service for people who are struggling to cope.

NHS Talking Therapies Hampshire (formerly italk) offers free treatment to people suffering from common mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and stress.

In Southampton, Steps to Wellbeing provides NHS Talking Therapies to people registered with a GP in the city.

The Lighthouse is an informal, out-of-hours mental health service for anyone over 18 who needs short-term support. They can access the service by texting "Lighthouse" to 07451276010.

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Sonya Mclean is the Board's senior programme manager in mental health crisis care.

She said: "I'd urge anyone who is struggling to cope to take advantage of the brilliant services available, either by contacting NHS111 or by sending a text message to the SHOUT team.

“If you feel you might attempt suicide, or have seriously harmed yourself, call 999 or head to your nearest Emergency Department."