Someone to talk to
Find someone to talk to by phone, text or online. You do not have to explain everything perfectly.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.
If you need urgent mental health support but it is not an emergency, call 111 and select the mental health option where available.
Call someone
Free, and staffed by people whose whole job is to listen. Numbers checked July 2026.
For children and young people under 19.
Call: 0800 1111. Open: 24 hours a day, every day. Cost: free.
You can talk about anything. You do not have to give your name. Childline also offers one-to-one online chat and email support.
For young people under 25.
The Mix offers support with feelings, family, money, housing, relationships and other issues. It provides online support, community discussion spaces and one-to-one counselling options.
Adults need someone to talk to as well.
YoungMinds Parents Helpline. For adults worried about a child or young person’s mental health. Call: 0808 802 5544. Open: weekdays; check the website for current hours.
Family Lives. Support with parenting and family life. Call: 0808 800 2222. Open: Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm; weekends, 10am to 3pm.
Contact. Support for families with disabled children. Call: 0808 808 3555.
Text someone
For when talking out loud is too much, or the house is too quiet to call.
For any age, when talking out loud feels too hard.
Text SHOUT to 85258. Open: 24 hours a day, every day. Cost: free and confidential.
A trained volunteer will text back. You can talk at your own pace.