Getting help with your suicidal thoughts

If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or thinking about self-harm, it's important to know that you're not alone.

Finding the right service

Are you experiencing thoughts like this?

"I can't cope."

"Am I suicidal?"

"I can't do this anymore."

"I want to die."

Please reach out to one of the services below.

Services available 24/7

NHS 24 mental health hub

The 111 service provides urgent mental health assessment and support 24/7.

Phone: 111

Samaritans

A helpline for anyone feeling low or considering suicide.

Phone: 116 123

Website: samaritans.org

Childline

A service for young people under 19 struggling with mental health issues, or any other problem.

Phone: 0800 1111

Webchat: childline.org.uk/get-support/1-2-1-counsellor-chat/

Website: www.childline.org.uk

YoungMinds crisis messenger

A 24/7 text messaging service for young people in crisis.

The YoungMinds Crisis Messenger is run by Shout.

Text: Text YM to 85258

Website: youngminds.org.uk/find-help/get-urgent-help/youngminds-crisis-messenger/

Services available at other times

Breathing Space

Sometimes our thoughts and feelings can overwhelm us. It helps to get some Breathing Space. Pick up the phone - we're here to listen.

Service open:

Monday to Thursday - 6pm to 2am
Weekends - Friday 6pm to Monday 6am

Phone: 0800 83 85 87

Webchat: breathingspace.scot

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)

Confidential and free support, information and signposting for men.

Service open: 5pm to midnight every day

Phone: 0800 58 58 58

Webchat: thecalmzone.net/help/webchat/

Switchboard LGBT+

An information, support and referral service for anyone who identifies as LGBT+.

Service open: 10am to 10pm every day

Phone: 0300 330 0630

Webchat: switchboard.lgbt

SAMH information line

Whether you’re seeking support, looking for more information for you or someone you love, or just want to have chat about mental health, we’re here.

Service open: 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays)

Phone: 0344 800 0550 (call charges apply)

Website: samh.org.uk/informationservice

Think Positive Hub for students

An online mental health resource for students and those who support them.

Website: thinkpositive.scot

Further help

If you're feeling overwhelmed or out of control you can try these practical tools from Mind. Find out what you can do to help yourself cope and how you can distract yourself.

Visit NHS inform's mental wellbeing materials for more help and advice.

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