A "vulnerable" man has now been missing for more than two weeks.
Craig Reed, from Gateshead , was last seen leaving his home on December 16 but has not been seen or heard from since.
The 39-year-old left the home on Rose Street in Teams on the Monday afternoon and his sister has said the disappearance is "out of the blue".
Lynsey Allison said dad-of-one Craig was on medication for his mental health but he left some of it at home.
The 37-year-old from Washington said: "He didn't take all of his medication with him, so he could be confused."
She added: "He's been ok but obviously this has kind of come out of the blue. It's very unlike him to stay out, to stay away from home."
Superintendent Craig Metcalfe, of Northumbria Police , said: We are growing increasingly worried about Craig and are ramping up our efforts to locate him.
“His family are very concerned and we are offering them support as we continue to piece together his movements over the past few days.
“We are now releasing a picture of Craig and are asking anyone with information about his whereabouts to get in touch.
“If you know where he is, or have seen him around in recent days, then please call us.
“Likewise, if Craig himself reads this appeal then we would urge you to get in touch. Your family just want to know that you’re okay.”
Craig, or anyone who knows his whereabouts, is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference HRN M009032/19.
