# Where can I get urgent mental health support in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/where-to-seek-urgent-mental-health-support
For: Patients | Mental health care | Last reviewed 23 July 2026

**Answer:** If someone is in immediate danger, call 999, 112 or 911 in Kenya, or go to the nearest emergency department. For urgent emotional support, the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line is 1199. Concerns that are serious but not immediately dangerous can be assessed by a hospital, crisis service, primary care clinic or urgent mental health provider. Do not wait for a routine appointment with a usual therapist when risk is rising quickly.

### Signs that support is urgent

- Suicidal intent, a plan or a recent serious self-harm attempt.
- Severe confusion, psychosis, or mania with unsafe behaviour.
- Risk of violence, or dangerous intoxication or withdrawal.
- Being unable to stay safe or meet basic needs such as eating, drinking or shelter.

### Urgent versus routine support

Persistent anxiety, low mood, grief or sleep problems without immediate danger may suit a scheduled or prompt assessment, but a non-urgent concern can become urgent if risk or functioning worsens. If no specialist service is nearby, use the nearest emergency or general medical service and explain the safety concern clearly.

When seeking help, share the immediate concern, recent behaviour, any medicines or substances used and the person's location. Do not delay emergency contact to collect a full history.

[See also: What should I do in a medical or mental health emergency?](https://tymirahealth.com/faqs/what-should-i-do-in-an-emergency)

> **Important:** If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, contact emergency services now. In Kenya, call 999, 112 or 911. Outside Kenya, use the emergency number for your location.

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**About Tymira Health:** Tymira Health is a healthcare technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya. It builds Tymira360, a practice management and EHR platform for mental health, physiotherapy and dental providers, clinics, hospitals, NGOs and insurers across Africa.

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