‘Tis the season to be jolly - but it’s not always easy at Christmas

However, for a lot of people, the holiday season is a particularly challenging time.

Councillor Jude Wells, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Health, said: “there’s a lot of pressure over the Christmas period to make things perfect – especially as we’re all looking to make up for lost time after last year.

“If things are getting too much, I really recommend talking to a friend, family member, or one of the teams listed below. You’re not alone and there’s always someone available to listen.”

Opening times over Christmas

Free services available 24 hours a day, every day:

• Open Door’s confidential helpline ran by trained staff (18+): 0800 138 7276
• Togetherall’s website and message board offering anonymous support (16+): visit the website
• SHOUT’s text message service (all ages): just text SHOUT to 85258 and someone will text back
• Pennine Care’s mental health helpline, ran by NHS staff (all ages): 0800 014 9995
• The Samaritans helpline (all ages): 116 123
• Advice and support around suicide: visit the Shining a Light on Suicide website

Open door safe haven in the town centre (ages 18+)

A free safe place to go for immediate crisis management and emotional support.

Visit: 72-74 Prince's Street Stockport, Greater Manchester SK1 1RJ

Opening times: 10am – 8pm Monday to Friday, 12-8pm Saturday and Sunday. This includes Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and all bank holidays.

Kooth (ages 11-18)

A website with advice and a friendly online team to talk to.

Visit the Kooth website

Opening times: advice is available 24/7, however you can talk to the team during the following times:

• Monday to Saturday: 12-8pm apart from:
• Christmas Day, New Years Day and bank holidays: 4-8pm
• Sundays: 6-10pm

Chat Health (ages 11-17)

A messaging service for young people wanting confidential mental/physical health and relationship advice from their local school nurse.

Contact: text 0748 063 5227 or send an online message on the website. Once connected, you’ll receive a message back within 24 hours.

Opening times:

• Christmas Eve: 8:30am-2pm
• 25 – 28 December: closed
• 29 – 31 December: 8:30am-4:30pm
• 1 – 3 January: closed

Hopeline (ages 0-35)

A helpline for young people having thoughts of suicide. Available for anyone under 35 or anyone who might be concerned for a young person.

Contact: 0800 068 4141

Opening times: 9am-midnight every day