KarunaNews Story

In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides most medical care for free to all legal residents. While this model is less financially burdensome than what many United States citizens experience, wait times and overcrowding in hospital systems make it challenging for people to receive timely care. In recent years, A&E, or accident and emergency, units have been overwhelmed by people in mental health crises. The NHS is doing something about it. In 2025, they opened a network of specialized clinics, which provide 24/7 support for patients feeling suicidal or experiencing symptoms of psychosis or mania. The new services also include a “full and holistic assessment” of a patient’s mental health needs. The idea is to address the root causes of a crisis, like homelessness or substance use issues, connecting patients to an action plan or additional resources for their overall well-being. And it all happens in 10 minutes, guaranteed. “Normally in A&E, they would have to wait for hours, surrounded by the noise and the chaos. Most of the people we see have suicidal thoughts. Here, they can come in and sit with their families. We are able to intervene early and link them up with treatment in the community. It means we can get them home much sooner,” said Toti Freysson, who manages one of the locations.