Mental Health Resources and Crisis Helplines Around the World

In a world where mental health challenges affect millions, having access to immediate support can be life-saving. Whether someone is struggling with anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health issues, crisis helplines provide crucial support and guidance. As we recognize the importance of mental health and work to reduce the stigma surrounding it, understanding the availability and role of mental health resources across the globe is more critical than ever.

Why Crisis Helplines Matter

Crisis helplines serve as a lifeline for individuals in distress, offering immediate, confidential support. These services are often the first point of contact for someone considering suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis. Trained professionals or volunteers listen without judgment, provide emotional support, and guide individuals toward further help. Helplines can prevent crises from escalating and offer a much-needed connection to those who feel isolated or overwhelmed.

Global Mental Health Resources and Crisis Helplines

Below is a list of mental health resources and crisis helplines from around the world. These services are available to provide support, whether you or someone you know needs immediate help or ongoing mental health care.

North America

United States:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Available 24/7, this service offers free and confidential support for people in distress. They also provide an online chat option for those who prefer digital communication.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor, available 24/7.
• The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678 for crisis intervention and suicide prevention services specifically for LGBTQ+ youth.

Canada:

• Crisis Services Canada: Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 for 24/7 support. This service offers bilingual (English and French) assistance for individuals in crisis.
• Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 for confidential support tailored to young people in Canada.

Europe

United Kingdom:

• Samaritans: Dial 116 123 to access 24/7 support for anyone struggling to cope. This service is free and confidential, available to anyone in the UK and Ireland.
• SHOUT: Text SHOUT to 85258 to speak with a trained volunteer. This 24/7 text messaging service provides support in a crisis, offering an alternative for those who may find it difficult to talk on the phone.

Germany:

• Telefonseelsorge: Call 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222 for 24/7 support. This service is free, confidential, and available across Germany.

Ireland:

• Pieta House: Call 1800 247 247 for free, 24/7 support for individuals at risk of suicide or self-harm.

Asia

India:

• AASRA Foundation: Call 91-9820466726 for 24/7 emotional support and counseling for individuals in distress. The foundation focuses on suicide prevention and providing a listening ear to those who need it.
• iCALL: Call 9152987821 or send an email to-icall@tiss.edu. It is a free counselling service run by School of Human Ecology, Tata Institute of Social Sciences.

Middle East: 

• National Center for Mental Health Promotion: Call tel: 920033360 The National Center for Mental Health Promotion offers free and confidential support over the phone.
• Mental Support Line: Call 8004673. The Mental Support Line is a dedicated service to provide basic mental support and is an initiative by the National Program for Health and Wellbeing

Japan:

• TELL Lifeline: Call 03-5774-0992 for support from 9 AM to 11 PM every day. TELL offers mental health support in English, catering to the needs of the expatriate community and locals.

Philippines:

• National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline: Call 0966-351-4518 or 0917-899-8727, available 24/7. This service provides crisis intervention and mental health support nationwide.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia:

• Lifeline Australia: Dial 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. Lifeline also offers online chat services for those who prefer digital communication.
• Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 for 24/7 support for anxiety, depression, and related mental health issues.

New Zealand:

• Lifeline New Zealand: Call 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357 for 24/7 crisis support.

Africa

South Africa:

• Suicide Crisis Helpline (SADAG): Call 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393 for 24/7 support. SADAG provides crisis intervention and mental health support, focusing on suicide prevention.

Kenya:

• Befrienders Kenya: Call +254 722 178 177 for support. Befrienders Kenya offers emotional assistance through phone and email, aiming to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.

Latin America

Mexico:

• Línea de la Vida: Call 800 911 2000 for mental health and crisis support. This service is available 24/7, offering free assistance to those in need.

Brazil:

• CVV (Centro de Valorização da Vida): Dial 188 for 24/7 emotional support and suicide prevention services.

Immediate Coping Strategies for Managing Suicidal Thoughts

• Use Grounding Techniques: When feeling overwhelmed, grounding techniques can help distract from suicidal thoughts by focusing on the present. Examples include:
• 5-4-3-2-1 Technique: Identify five things you see, four things you feel, three things you hear, two things you smell, and one thing you taste.
• Deep Breathing Exercises: Practice slow, deep breaths to calm your mind and body.
• Practice Self-Compassion and Kindness: Recognize that suicidal thoughts are a sign that something needs to change, not that something is inherently wrong with you. Being kind to yourself and acknowledging your struggles without judgment can reduce feelings of guilt or shame.
• Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. This can help you identify patterns, triggers, and emotions that contribute to suicidal ideation, offering a sense of release and a clearer perspective.
• Talk to Someone You Trust: Reach out to friends, family, or mentors who you trust and who can provide support without judgment. Sometimes, simply having someone listen can be a huge relief.
• Find a Mental Health Buddy: Consider partnering with a "mental health buddy" — someone you can check in with regularly to share how you’re feeling. This mutual support can be particularly beneficial when feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
• Engage in Meaningful Activities: Participate in activities that bring joy, comfort, or a sense of accomplishment. Hobbies, volunteering, spending time in nature, or caring for pets can help improve your mood and overall well-being.

Preparing for a Crisis

• Identify Your Triggers: Understanding what triggers your suicidal thoughts can help you avoid or better manage those situations. Keep a journal of triggers and how you respond to them.
• Develop a Coping Toolbox: Create a "toolbox" of coping strategies that work for you—this might include favorite quotes, soothing music, pictures of loved ones, or calming techniques. Keep these accessible for moments of crisis.
• Stay Connected: Isolation can intensify suicidal thoughts. Make an effort to stay connected with loved ones, even when you don’t feel like it. Consider scheduling regular meet-ups or phone calls.

Conclusion

Mental health is a global issue, and having access to reliable, immediate support can make all the difference. Crisis helplines and mental health resources are vital tools in providing that support, offering a lifeline to those in need. Whether you’re in a crisis or know someone who is, don’t hesitate to reach out. Share this information widely—together, we can help reduce the stigma around mental health and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need.

Experiencing suicidal thoughts is a sign that something needs to change, not that something is wrong with you. Remember, you are not alone—there are people, resources, and tools available to help. Reaching out for support can be the first step towards healing. 

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please contact your local crisis helpline, go to the nearest emergency room, or reach out to a trusted person for immediate support.