Let us get you some help

We do not know your story, but you are not alone. Whatever has brought you here, there are people ready to listen.

A small step still matters

Start with the words you can manage

If today has been difficult, finding this page is already a step forward. You do not need a perfect explanation and you do not need to work everything out before speaking to somebody.

You might call a helpline, send a text, speak with your GP or ask a person you trust to sit with you. Choose the option that feels possible right now. If the first conversation is not the right fit, another service may feel easier.

ChatFriends can also offer everyday company. You are welcome to talk about how your day has felt, or to join a lighter conversation about music, television, quizzes and ordinary life.

Visit wellbeing chat Find some company

Someone is ready to listen

UK support you can contact today

These services offer different kinds of help. A phone call, text conversation or local search can be a comfortable place to begin.

Samaritans

Call 116 123 free at any time, day or night. You can call about whatever is getting to you and you do not have to be suicidal.

Visit Samaritans

Shout 85258

Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential text support at any time anywhere in the UK.

Visit Shout

Hub of Hope

Search a large UK directory for nearby and national mental health services that suit the support you are looking for.

Search for support

Mind

Find practical information for difficult moments, together with more ways to get help and talk to somebody.

Visit Mind

NHS mental health support

Find local services, NHS talking therapies and the right route when you need help more quickly.

Visit the NHS

Vita NHS Talking Therapies

Free NHS talking therapies are available through Vita in selected areas, with current locations and self referral details on its website.

Check your area

Help across the four nations

Urgent NHS support where you live

England: call 111 and choose the mental health option, or use NHS 111 online.

Scotland: call 111 and choose the mental health option to reach the NHS 24 Mental Health Hub.

Wales: call 111 and choose option 2 to speak with a mental health worker in your area through NHS 111 Wales.

Northern Ireland: call Lifeline free on 0808 808 8000. The service is open all day and night.

Your GP can help you find the next step

Your GP can listen to what has been happening and help you find suitable ongoing support. If making the appointment feels difficult, write down what has changed, how long you have felt this way and what would help most today. You can ask somebody you trust to be with you when you call.

Keep the next step simple

Choose one person or service and begin with an honest sentence. You could say, “I have been finding things difficult and I would like somebody to listen.” That is enough to start.

If somebody’s life is in immediate danger: call 999 or go to A&E.

Service details checked against current NHS, Samaritans, Shout, Hub of Hope, Mind, Vita Health Group and Northern Ireland Public Health Agency information on 9 September 2026.