Are you looking for help in a crisis?

If you need an ambulance call 999

The Samaritans helpline is 116 123 and is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Calls can be made anytime, from any phone. All calls are confidential.

The Breathing Space helpline is open 24h at week-ends (Friday 6pm - Monday 6am) - All calls are confidential - 0800 83 85 87

If you cannot wait for your GP's surgery to open call NHS 24 - 111

You can also call the police, your emergency social work team or emergency community mental health team.

Are you or someone you know suicidal?

  • Talk openly about suicide and don't avoid the issue.
  • Listen to your friend or relative's feelings
  • Express your own feelings
  • Ask for help
  • Do not be judgemental
  • Alternatives are available, talk about those
  • Do not promise confidentiality, you may need to call for urgent help
  • Remove any means the person has to complete or attempt suicide
  • Get assistance
  • Call the Samaritans (08457-90-90-90), Breathing Space (0800-83-85-87) or 999 if in an emergency

What to do in a crisis

  • DO bring the person to a calm environment
  • DON'T give complex instructions
  • DO explain what you are doing and why
  • DO speak calmly to avoid excitments
  • DON'T make sudden moves
  • DO remember that people my recall what has happened when they are well even though they appear to be out of touch with reality at the time of the incident
  • DON'T try and talk a person out of their feelings - they are very real to them
  • DO stay with the person and listen (if safe for you)
  • DON'T assume that everthing a person says is the result of a delusion - it may be true (e.g. reporting and incident)