Guided self help resources

Help Lines and Services for Adolescents

If you need support, these services can help. Whether it’s mental health, substance misuse, abuse, or other challenges, these confidential services are here for you.

What to Do in a Mental Health Crisis

If you're in a mental health crisis and feel like you can’t cope, here’s what you need to do:

• Call Emergency Services (999 in the UK, 911 in the US, or the local number in your country) if you feel you’re in immediate danger or thinking about seriously hurting yourself. Your safety is what matters most.
• Go to A&E/ER/Nearest Hospital. If you’re really struggling and need urgent help, head to the nearest accident and emergency department.
• Contact your local crisis team if you have one. They’re trained to handle situations like this and provide immediate support.
• Reach out to a crisis text service. Many countries have free, confidential options for texting someone trained to listen and guide you.

Here’s the most important bit: Don’t sit alone with your feelings. Talk to someone—family, a friend, a teacher, or a trusted adult. You’re not alone, and help is available wherever you are.

Key Services by Country

United Kingdom

• Shout: Text 'SHOUT' to 85258 for 24/7 confidential support. Visit website.
• Childline: Call 0800 1111 or chat online for free support for those under 19. Visit website.
• YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: Text 'YM' to 85258 for free, confidential 24/7 support. Visit website.
• Runaway Helpline: Call or text 116 000 for support if you're thinking of running away. Visit website.
• FRANK: Call 0300 123 6600 or text 82111 for confidential drug and alcohol advice. Visit website.
• Catch22: Contact 07545 423077 for help with county lines issues. Visit website.
• NSPCC: Call 0808 800 5000 for abuse support. Visit website.

United States

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 988 for 24/7 support. Visit website.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for 24/7 crisis support. Visit website.
• The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678 for LGBTQ+ youth. Visit website.
• SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for substance abuse and mental health services. Visit website.

Australia

• Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support. Visit website.
• Kids Helpline: Call 1800 55 1800 for free support for young people aged 5–25. Visit website.
• Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 for mental health support. Visit website.
• Headspace: Free mental health and wellbeing services for young people. Visit website.

Canada

• Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 for free 24/7 support. Visit website.
• Talk Suicide Canada: Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645. Visit website.

New Zealand

• Youthline: Call 0800 37 66 33 or text 234 for youth-focused support. Visit website.
• Lifeline NZ: Call 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357. Visit website.

Global Resources

• The Befrienders Worldwide: Find a crisis helpline anywhere in the world. Visit website.
• UNICEF U-Report: Anonymous support for young people worldwide. Visit website.