Confusion around 988 mental health support line cleared up by UK charity Mikeysline

A new mental health support line is doing the rounds on social media, says mental health charity Mikeysline, but all is not as it seems.

The charity has seen a spike in people sharing the 988 mental health hotline on social media in the last week – however this number is only active in the USA, and not in the UK.

People struggling with their mental health or thoughts of suicide who dial the number in the UK are met with a message stating that the number is not recognised – which could have potentially dire consequences.

Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline, said: “As we jump from crisis to crisis in the UK – from the pandemic to the rising cost of living – it is fantastic to see people sharing mental health support resources with people who are struggling.

“But it’s important to ensure that we are sharing appropriate advice and help. Someone reaching out for help at the most vulnerable time of their life could interpret an inactive phone line as a sign that help is not available – which is so far from the truth.

“Anyone in the UK can call the Samaritans on 116 123 if they are struggling – and services like Breathing Space offer evening and weekend phone support to anyone in Scotland.

“We know that not everyone feels able to talk about their issues out loud, which is why we have introduced text-based services through SMS, WhatsApp, Messenger, Twitter and web chat to support those in the north of Scotland who are suffering. And there are similar services available throughout the UK.

“The important thing for anyone who is struggling to remember is that it’s ok not to be ok. We are living through unprecedented times, faced with unimaginable challenges every day, so it is only natural to feel overwhelmed at times.

“Help is available for everyone that needs it, though. Whether you find it easier to talk on the phone or face-to-face or via text, you can reach someone that can listen and understand what you’re going through, and help you find a way forward.”

The charity has collated a list of phone lines and mental health support services that those in emotional distress can contact – alongside the text-based and face-to-face services it has provided for seven years in the north of Scotland. The list can be found at https://mikeyslineold.vhostevents.com/what-we-do/resources/.

Since 2015, Mikeysline has offered confidential, non-judgemental support to people of all ages dealing with mental health issues, emotional distress or thoughts of suicide in the Highlands and Moray. It does this via a text line service at 07786 207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000 and via its website; and live chat, Twitter and Messenger via its website.

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the north of Scotland; and offers face-to-face support in four Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, Tesco in Tain, The Place in Alness, and the Highland Yoga Collective in Nairn. Here, service users can engage in one-to-one support or join in group sessions.

Mikeysline celebrates seven years of mental health support in north of Scotland

Staff at one of Scotland’s leading mental health and suicide prevention charities are reflecting on their achievements as the organisation celebrates its seventh anniversary.

Mikeysline has grown over the last seven years to become one of the country’s foremost grassroots mental health support services, supported by ambassadors including Hollywood star Karen Gillan, and footballing legends Steven Ferguson and John Robertson.

The anniversary comes as UK Charity Week (December 5-9) recognises the achievements of charities like Mikeysline up and down the country.

The award-winning charity provides face-to-face and text-based aid to people of all ages in the Highlands and Moray. Demand for Mikeysline’s services has increased by 80 per cent since the Covid pandemic and related lockdowns – with its team of text line volunteers increasing from eight in early 2020 to 35 today.

CEO Emily Stokes said: “Mikeysline was founded in 2015 in the wake of tragedy, when Martin Shaw and Michael Williamson sadly took their lives within 48 hours of each other.

“From our roots as a suicide prevention charity, we have worked over the past seven years to widen our services to offer support to anyone in emotional distress or struggling with the stresses of life.

“We are so proud of the hard work our volunteers, staff, fundraisers and supporters have provided over the years. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to reach as many people with the message that it’s ok not to be ok – and that help is there for those who need it.”

Mikeysline was the first mental health charity of its kind to offer text-based support. Initially offering this via SMS, over time this service has been expanded to include WhatsApp, live web chat, Twitter and Messenger support – giving service users as many routes to support as possible.

Emily continued: “Sometimes the hardest part of addressing an issue is to talk about it out loud, which is why our text-based services are so important. It allows people to communicate with us on their own terms, and gain the support and advice they need in a way that suits them and their situation.”

In recent years, Mikeysline has opened four Hives across the Highlands – named for the bee which has become synonymous with the charity – from which it provides face-to-face support in one-to-one and group sessions.

Through these sessions, Mikeysline can provide tailored support to key groups that are often lacking support – including parents of children suffering from ill mental health; men, who traditionally are less likely to talk through their problems; and business people struggling with the pressures of work.

The charity has also partnered with a number of primary and secondary schools across the north of Scotland to provide educational resources as well as in-school support to young people that need it.

Mikeysline founder Ron Williamson added: “When we started Mikeysline, there was very little support available out of hours in the Highlands for people struggling with their mental health. Now, seven years on, it’s fantastic to see such support from the community for the services Mikeysline provides.

“As demand for mental health support increases, that support is more vital than ever to allow our volunteers to continue to provide help and assistance to the most vulnerable people in our community.

“From engaging young people in schools to providing tailored support to business leaders, running support sessions for often-ignored groups to supporting those facing suicidal thoughts, Mikeysline is making a huge difference to so many people’s lives every day.”

In 2021, Mikeysline launched a podcast – Speaking of Suicide – which allows people to share their stories of mental health and loss, offering support and solidarity with others facing similar situations. To date, episodes have been downloaded over 13,300 times by listeners around the world.

Over the years, Mikeysline has been honoured with a number of awards to commemorate its efforts in reducing suicide and promoting positive mental health in the north of Scotland – including at the Highland Third Sector Interface Awards, Highland Business Women Awards, and the Highland Heroes Awards.

Emily said: “While we are incredibly proud of what we have achieved over the last seven years, the hard work isn’t over. Now more than ever we’re seeing that mental health support is needed in the Highlands and beyond, to support people through some of the most turbulent times in living memory.

“We’re dedicated to enacting positive change in our communities, supporting people through times when they are struggling and empowering them to access the resources, advice and a friendly ear to unburden themselves.

“So as much as we are looking back on the years since we began, we also have our eyes firmly set on the future.”

5 things you can do to support your mental health

Monday, October 10 is World Mental Health Day, which provides an opportunity for people to talk about mental health and the importance of reaching out and looking after it – with this year’s theme being “make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority.”

One in four people experience a mental health problem at least once in their life, whether that is anxiety, stress or simply feeling as if it’s all getting too much. But what little things can you do to try and make yourself feel better?

1. Reach out to someone you trust

Although many people struggle with their emotional and mental health on a daily basis, only a fraction feel able to talk about it. Reaching out can do the world of good. Find someone you trust, perhaps a friend or family member, and let them know that you’re struggling. Simply talking through a situation can feel like a massive weight is being lifted off your shoulders.

Spending time with a loved one can also have a positive effect on your mood, reducing feelings of loneliness and helping you feel like you have a greater sense of belonging.

Why not call up a friend and ask if they’d like to meet for a coffee or go for a walk?

2. Look for ways to reduce stress

Feeling stressed is incredibly common and is something that many experience in their day-to-day lives. Half of people working in the UK say they feel very stressed at work and 60% of young people say they feel stressed by the pressure to succeed. Although it’s typical to feel stressed on the odd occasion, if you’re regularly experiencing stress it can lead to physical, emotional and mental strain on the body – causing headaches, stomach aches and further mental health issues.

It’s important to find ways to manage your stress, whether that is taking a break whenever you’re in a particularly stressful situation or finding ways to switch off and do something you enjoy. This could be going for a walk, listening to music or a podcast, or reading a book.

It’s all the little things that add up to make a big difference.

3. Look after your physical health

Looking after your physical health can have a massive impact on your mental health. How are you treating yours?

Our bodies and minds are connected, so when you’re looking after one of them, it can benefit the other.

It’s important to ensure you’re getting enough sleep each night, eating a balanced diet which includes fruit, vegetables and whole foods (not forgetting the odd treat), and you’re staying active.

Although physical activity can seem overwhelming you don’t need to run a marathon to benefit your health. Try doing a little bit of movement every day, whether that is going to the gym, dancing around your house or going for a walk around your garden.

4. Spend time outdoors

Nature is incredibly healing, with studies showing that spending time outdoors has a positive effect on mental health and reduces feelings of stress and anxiety.

Take a walk to your closest wooded area, sit in your garden or buy a plant for your home and take a moment to breathe. Tune your senses into what’s around you. What can you smell? What can you see? What can you hear?

5. Get in touch with an organisation like Mikeysline

Finally, if you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t forget to reach out to an organisation like Mikeysline. We’re here to listen and support you no matter what the issue is, however big or small.

Get in touch via our text and multimedia support line, book a face-to-face appointment or get in touch with one of the organisations listed here on our website.

Remember, it’s ok not to be ok.
If you need someone to talk to, please text us via SMS at 07786 207755, through WhatsApp at 01463 729000, or contact us via Messenger, webchat or Twitter.

Double awards triumph for Mikeysline highlights importance of mental health support in rural areas

A charity offering mental health and suicide prevention services in the Highlands and Moray has scooped two major awards, highlighting the need for wellbeing support in remote and rural communities.

Mikeysline scooped the Reducing Vulnerability Award through Third Sector Activity at the Highland Third Sector Interface Awards – just a week after being named Best Third Sector Organisation at the Highland Business Women Awards.

CEO Emily Stokes said: “To be recognised for the work we are doing in the Highlands and Moray is incredible and a real testament to the hard work of our volunteers and staff who give their time and energy to support their communities.

“However, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels. It’s a sad fact that suicide rates are higher in the Highlands than in most other regions of the UK. There is still so much to be done to reach rural and remote communities that don’t currently have easy access to support services in addition to the areas where we already provide support.

“We are addressing this by partnering with football clubs, other sports clubs and organisations like the Camanachd Association, to bring our messages and services to the heart of rural communities where sports form a core part of their community identity.

“It is so important to us to spread the message that it’s OK not to be OK, and that help is available in whatever form it is most accessible to people in distress – whether that is by text or face-to-face.”

Mikeysline is committed to breaking down the barriers and stigma surrounding conversations on mental health and suicide. As the first UK charity to offer text-based mental health support, it has continued to innovate in its delivery of support – now offering face-to-face sessions in four Hives across the north of Scotland, as well as running dedicated group support sessions.

Members of the Mikeysline team celebrating at the HTSI Awards night. Pictured (l-r) are Bonnie McColl, office manager; Donna Smith, chair; support workers Maria Kelly, Donna Brady, and Emilie Roy; and Emily Stokes, CEO.

Judges at the Highland Third Sector Interface Awards commented: “Mikeysline are committed to supporting people of all ages in Highland and breaking down the stigma of mental health issues through innovative means.” 

Mikeysline has spent considerable effort engaging with rural communities through partnerships with the likes of the Camanachd Association, allowing the charity to spread its message to the heart of remote areas where mental health support and wellbeing resources are scarce.

The charity has also partnered with pupils and teachers in dozens of schools across the Highlands and Moray, providing in-school support and fundraising activities to increase awareness and help young people through difficult times in their lives.

The Highland Business Women Awards judges also noted: “The growth and innovation delivered by Mikeysline is inspirational. From the introduction of Hives and youth champions, to increased social media interaction and growing partnerships with the local business community – the team at Mikeysline have developed something very special, which is breaking down barriers and making a fundamental difference in this vital area.”

Since 2015, Mikeysline has offered confidential, non-judgemental support to people of all ages dealing with mental health issues, emotional distress or thoughts of suicide in the Highlands and Moray. It does this via a text line service at 07786 207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000 and via its website; and live chat, Twitter and Messenger via its website.

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the north of Scotland; and offers face-to-face support in four Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, Tesco in Tain, The Place in Alness, and now the Highland Yoga Collective in Nairn. Here, service users can engage in one-to-one support or join in group sessions.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk – or find Mikeysline on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

A-maze-ing sum raised for Mikeysline at Belladrum

Mental health charity Mikeysline has received a four-figure donation from Scotland’s largest industrial supply group after an a-maze-ing fundraising drive at the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival.

Highland Industrial Supplies constructed a pallet maze at the popular music festival, raising £2,500 as festival-goers traversed the tricky course.

The funds will be used by Mikeysline to provide often-lifesaving mental health support and suicide prevention services across the Highlands and Moray, through face-to-face and text-based support.

Garry Mackintosh, managing director of Highland Industrial Supplies said: “We were thrilled with the response to our pallet maze at Belladrum, and to have raised so much money for Mikeysline in the process – allowing the charity to continue its great work in the community.

“As a local business working with a charity close to the community’s heart, it was important to us to engage with our customers, friends and families at a grassroots level.

Mikeysline volunteers Ben Steedman, Melissa Murdoch, and Conner Sutcliffe(l-r) at Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival.

“It’s also important to us to encourage outdoor events and activities in our community. This went hand-in-hand with supplying 2,000 free hi-vis vests for children at the festival, which not only promoted Mikeysline but also allows them to be seen safely during the upcoming winter months.”

Mr Mackintosh has also sponsored the majority of Mikeysline advertising boards being erected at shinty clubs across the Highlands, as part of the charity’s partnership with the Camanachd Association which aims to promote positive mental health messages in rural and remote communities.

Mikeysline CEO Emily Stokes added: “We were delighted to receive such a generous donation from Highland Industrial Supplies following its hugely popular pallet maze at Belladrum.

“Getting outside, and getting some fresh air and exercise, is a fantastic way to relieve stress and anxiety – so anything that encourages people to get up and active is great for the community’s wellbeing.

“Depression and low mood is often linked with the winter months, but it’s just as easy to feel down or under pressure when the sun is shining brightly. We want everyone to know that it’s ok not to be ok, and that support is available if you feel things are getting to be too much to handle on your own.”

Since 2015, Mikeysline has offered confidential, non-judgemental support to people of all ages dealing with mental health issues, emotional distress or thoughts of suicide in the Highlands and Moray. It does this via a text line service at 07786 207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000 and via its website; and live chat, Twitter and Messenger via its website.

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide, and offers face-to-face support in four Hives across the region – at its Inverness headquarters, Tesco in Tain, The Place in Alness, and now the Highland Yoga Collective in Nairn.