Help for suicidal thoughts

Phone a helpline

These free helplines are there to help when you're feeling down or desperate.

Unless it says otherwise, they're open 24 hours a day, every day.

Talk to someone you trust

Let family or friends know what's going on for you. They may be able to offer support and help keep you safe.

There's no right or wrong way to talk about suicidal feelings – starting the conversation is what's important.

Who else you can talk to

If you find it difficult to talk to someone you know, you could:

• call your GP – ask for an emergency appointment
• call 111 out of hours – they will help you find the support and help you need
• contact your mental health crisis team – if you have one

Tips for coping right now

• try not to think about the future – just focus on getting through today
• stay away from drugs and alcohol
• get yourself to a safe place, like a friend's house
• be around other people
• do something you usually enjoy, such as spending time with a pet

See more tips from Rethink.

Worried about someone else?

If you're worried about someone, try to get them to talk to you. Ask open-ended questions like: "How do you feel about...?"

Don't worry about having the answers. Just listening to what someone has to say and taking it seriously can be more helpful.

See Samaritans' tips on how to start a difficult conversation.

Rethink also has advice on how to support someone who is having suicidal thoughts.