Resources
Helplines for People in Distress, Abuse, and Crisis Situations
Life throws us some very difficult situations sometimes. Be it emotional distress or abuse or anything else, the first step is to reach out for help. Below is a list of helplines and resources that provide support, guidance, and assistance to those in need. Most of these services are confidential and available 24/7.
General Crisis Lifeline
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA):
Phone: 988
Website: https://988lifeline.org
It supports an individual experiencing thoughts of suicide or other mental health-related distress and crises.
Samaritans (UK):
Phone: 116 123
Email: [email protected]
The support is given to people who are thinking about killing themselves or have concerns for others in this situation; it is simply a listening ear for someone overwhelmed or at a point of hopelessness.
Lifeline Australia:
Phone: 13 11 14
Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au
Crisis support, suicide prevention resource.
Abuse
National Domestic Violence Hotline (USA):
Phone: 800-799-SAFE (7233) or text "START" to 88788
Website: thehotline.org
Assists those in domestic violence situations, safety plans included, resources.
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) (USA):
Phone: 800-656-HOPE (4673)
Website: rainn.org
Provides help for sexually assaulted survivors by providing local resource access.
Childline (UK):
Phone: 0800 1111
Website: childline.org.uk
Service devoted to children and young people aged under 19 who need either help, or just someone who will listen and talk to confidentially.
Mental Health and Emotional Support
Crisis Text Line (USA, UK, Canada):
USA: Text HOME to 741741
UK: Text SHOUT to 85258
Canada: Text HOME to 686868
Offers free and confidential text-based mental health support.
Mind (UK):
Phone: 0300 123 3393
Text: 86463
Website: mind.org.uk
A mental health charity offering information and support.
Beyond Blue (Australia):
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Website: beyondblue.org.au
Mental health support and suicide prevention.
LGBTQ+ Support
The Trevor Project (USA):
Phone: 1-866-488-7386
Text: Text START to 678678
Website: thetrevorproject.org
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.
Switchboard (UK):
Phone: 0300 330 0630
Email: [email protected]
Website: switchboard.lgbt
Resources for LGBTQ+ people to discuss anything they are going through.
Substance Abuse and Addiction Resources
SAMHSA's National Helpline (USA):
Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Website: samhsa.gov
Provides resources for individuals and families dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA):
Website: aa.org
Assists people in recovery from alcohol addiction through peer support.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA):
Website: na.org
A global, community-based organization offering recovery support for those with drug addiction.
How to Use These Resources
- Recognize the Need: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, or in crisis, reach out immediately.
- Contact a Helpline: Choose the appropriate helpline for your situation and make the call, send a text, or access their online services.
- Find Local Assistance: Many of these resources will connect you with local support to help you along the way.
You are not alone, and there is help available. Taking the first step to reach out is a powerful act of self-care and courage. Share these resources with anyone who may benefit from them.
