Since April 1, 2020, when it was launched, the SNS 24 Psychological Advice Line (LAP) has answered more than 280 thousand calls.
In a statement, the Shared Services of the Ministry of Health (SPMS) informs that, in 2020, 50 thousand calls were answered, increasing the number to 64,500 in 2023. This year, in the first quarter, 15 thousand calls were answered.
“Since its launch on April 1, 2020, during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, this line has played a fundamental role in providing emotional and psychological support across the country. Of the total calls answered, more than 19 thousand were made by healthcare professionals”, says the note, adding that since 2022, the service has also been available in English – 4885 calls were answered in that language.
Furthermore, psychologists can refer the user’s case to the SNS 24 Screening, Counseling and Referral service, if necessary.
“Available every day of the year, the SNS 24 Psychological Advice Line will continue to be a proximity response in mental health for all Portuguese people and residents of the country who need it”, the publication also says.
