If you’re feeling suicidal – we’re here for you
Many people feel overwhelmed or struggle to cope at some point in their lives. If you’re feeling this way right now, you’re not alone and help is available.Thoughts of hurting yourself or ending your life can feel frightening and isolating, but with the right support, these feelings can pass. You deserve help and safety.
Below you’ll find advice and resources to help you stay safe and get support:
- Advice to stay safe
- Suicide Prevention Safety Plans
- Getting help now
- Mindfulness and self-care techniques
1. If you’re in immediate danger
If you feel unable to keep yourself safe, or have harmed yourself, call 999 for emergency services or go to your nearest A&E immediately.
You can also call NHS 111 if you need urgent mental health advice but it’s not a life-threatening emergency.
2. Talk to someone right away
Reaching out is a sign of strength. You could speak to:
- A friend, family member, or trusted colleague
- Your GP or another health professional
- A trained listener through a helpline
Free, confidential support in the UK:
- Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7) or samaritans.org
- Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7 crisis text support)
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight, every day) or thecalmzone.net
- Papyrus HOPELINE247 (for people under 35) – 0800 068 4141 / Text 07860 039967
- Mind Infoline – 0300 123 3393
These services are free, non-judgemental and confidential.
3. Try not to be alone
If possible, go to a place where there are other people, a friend’s house, a public space or a safe workplace environment. Simply being around others can help you feel less isolated.
4. Think about your reasons to stay alive
Remind yourself of what matters to you, loved ones, pets, friends, hobbies, work or future goals. These personal reasons can help ground you in moments of crisis. Writing them down can make them feel more real.
5. Make a suicide prevention safety plan
A safety plan is a practical, personalised tool to help you stay safe when you’re struggling.
Your plan might include:
- Warning signs you’re approaching crisis
- Ways to make your environment safer
- Calming activities or distractions
- People you can contact for support
- Professional helplines you can call
Download our Safety plan template (flat or foldable) and keep it somewhere easy to find – on your phone, in your bag, or by your bedside. When you’re in crisis, follow your plan step by step. You’re giving yourself the best chance for these feelings to pass.
6. Mindfulness and self-care
Sometimes small steps can help ease distress. Mindfulness, breathing exercises, grounding techniques or gentle physical activity can reduce feelings of panic and overwhelm. We have more information and guided exercises [here] (link to your mindfulness page).
7. Getting ongoing support
After the immediate crisis has passed, ongoing support is important. Consider:
- Speaking regularly with your GP about mental health support
- Asking for a referral to local NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT)
- Contacting Employee Assistance Programmes (if your workplace offers one)
- Looking into local support groups or online communities
You don’t have to go through this alone. With the right help and support, recovery is possible.
Suicide Prevention Safety Plans