Located at The Coach House in Lewis Gardens, the centre is run by Mid and North East Essex Mind and replaces the charity’s previous site on St Peter’s Street.
The new facility offers a more central and accessible location for those in need.
Pam Cox, MP for Colchester, visited the site and welcomed the improved access to support.
Ms Cox said: “It’s vital that people get the mental health support they need.
“It’s really inspiring to see the exceptional work Mid and North East Essex Mind is delivering to the people of north east Essex in the heart of the community.”
The North East Essex Sanctuary provides a safe, supportive environment for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, whether in crisis or needing help to stay well.
The new centre aims to reduce mental health crises by ensuring support is readily available and easy to access.
Ginny Idehen, chief executive of Mid and North East Essex Mind, said: “Whether you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or need support to stay well, we can provide a safe, compassionate space for you.
“The new centre offers rooms which will offer a calming place for people to be.
“We’ll also be located in the heart of Colchester, just at the end of the High Street, making the service much more accessible for all.”
The service is designed to prevent crises by offering timely, non-clinical support to those feeling distressed or overwhelmed.
Staff work with individuals to develop personalised plans that complement existing care and address immediate needs.
Mid and North East Essex Mind was commissioned to deliver the service by NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board (SNEE ICB).
The North East Essex Sanctuary is open daily from 10am to 11pm, 365 days a year.
Support is available through self-referral or referral by a healthcare professional.
Referrals can be made by GPs, crisis teams, emergency departments, or community services.
Members of the public can also refer themselves directly.
For more information or to access support, visit www.neesanctuary.co.uk.
Alternatively, call 0300 330 9492 or email neesanc@mnessexmind.org.