A letter for anyone who needs it right now
If you’re reading this, things might feel really hard at the moment.
You might be overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure who to turn to.
Please know this: you are not alone, and you don’t have to go through this by yourself.
Even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, support is here for you. There are people who care, who will listen without judgment, and who genuinely want to help you stay safe and find a way through.
You don’t need to have the right words. You don’t need to wait until things get worse. Reaching out — even just a small step — is enough.
Things can change. With the right support, difficult moments can pass.
Please speak to someone today. You deserve support, understanding, and care.
When it all gets too much, help is available. Mental health crisis helplines, text services, webchats… here 24/7 to help you
We can all have times where we are facing a range of life’s challenges. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming but there is always help available. Below are links to some of the many support services that are there when you need them.
If you or someone you are with is at immediate risk to themselves or others call 999. They won’t judge you, they are here to help.
Locally Provided Services
The Initial Response Services (IRS) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0800 013 0707. It is staffed by trained mental health professionals who are able to provide assessment and referrals to appropriate services – If you feel you are unsafe, distressed or worried about your mental health you can call them for help and support.
Lancashire and South Cumbria Care’s Mental Health Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 0800 953 0110. It is staffed by trained mental health professionals who are able to provide assessment and referrals to appropriate services – ring it if you need to access services or for advice about someone who needs treatment/support.
They also have a Wellbeing Helpline & Texting Service, staffed by volunteers and those with lived experience, that offers emotional support – ring if you want to chat about your mental health or are lonely etc. It can be contacted on 0800 915 4640 or by texting ‘Hello’ to 07860 022846.
Nationally
Samaritans: Listening service
To talk about anything that is upsetting you. 24/7 Call 116 123 (free from any phone), email jo@samaritans.org. Click here to view their website.
Papyrus Hopeline UK: Support for under 35’s
If you’re under 35 and struggling with suicidal feelings, or concerned about a young person who might be struggling. Call on 0800 068 4141, email pat@papyrus-uk.org or text 07786 209 697. Click here to view their website.
Hub of hope: Mental health support for all
Hub of Hope is a national mental health directory set up by Chasing the Stigma. Click here to visit their website.
SANE Line: Helpline
If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else. Call 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day) or email support@sane.org.uk or find out about their text care service. Click here to view their website.
The Mix: Support for under 25’s
Essential support for the Under 25s. Call 0808 808 4994. Or Text Crisis Messenger ‘THEMIX’ to 85258. Or access their Group Chat or Online Community. Click here to view their website.
Campaign against living miserably (CALM): Helpline for males
If you identify as male Call on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight every day) or use their webchat service. Click here to view their website.
Switchboard: Support for the LGBTQ+ community
If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender Call 0800 0119 100 (10am–10pm every day), email hello@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+. Click here to view their website.
GamCare National Gambling Helpline
Free, 24/7 national helpline. Call 0808 8020 133 for confidential support on gambling. GamCare also offer live chats and an online community. Click here to view their website
Directory of Mental Health Support in Lancashire
Health organisations in Lancashire and South Cumbria have worked together to develop an interactive map of mental health services. Click here to find support in your area.