Text SHOUT to 85258
If you are a young person struggling with your mental health, Shout can support you.
If you need urgent support
There’s no problem ‘too big’ or ‘too small’ – if you can’t cope, don’t bottle it up. Whether you’ve had a really stressful day, or you’ve been going through something difficult for a while and don’t know where to turn, here are a list of services that can support you.
If you are in an emergency, including if you’re worried about risk to your own life or someone else, call 999 and ask for an ambulance, or go straight to A&E if you can.
The NHS gives guidance on when to call 999 or go to A&E. A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one.
Supporting resources
Read our tips and advice on how you can look after yourself and find out more about some common mental health symptoms and how to cope with your feelings.
Other helplines and services
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Childline
If you’re under 19 you can confidentially call, chat online or email about any problem big or small.
Sign up for a free Childline locker (real name or email address not needed) to use their free 1-2-1 counsellor chat and email support service.
Can provide a BSL interpreter if you are deaf or hearing-impaired.
Hosts online message boards where you can share your experiences, have fun and get support from other young people in similar situations.
- Opening times:
- 24/7
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The Mix
Free, short-term online counselling for young people aged 25 or under. Their website also provides lots of information and advice about mental health and wellbeing.
Email support is available via their online contact form.
They have a free 1-2-1 webchat service available during opening hours.
- Opening times:
- 4pm - 11pm, Monday - Friday
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Samaritans
Whatever you're going through, you can contact the Samaritans for support. N.B. This is a listening service and does not offer advice or intervention.
- Opening times:
- 24/7
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Papyrus
Offers confidential advice and support for young people struggling with suicidal thoughts, as well as family and friends; and information about how to make a safety plan.
Its helpline service - HOPELINE247 - is available to anybody under the age of 35 experiencing suicidal thoughts, or anybody concerned that a young person could be thinking of suicide.
- Opening times:
- 24/7 every day of the year