Talk to someone & crisis support

You don't have to be in crisis to reach out

Talking helps — to a trained listener, a peer, or a counsellor. You don't need the "right" words, and you don't need things to be at breaking point. Sometimes naming what's going on out loud, to someone who won't judge, is enough to make the next day feel possible. The services below are free, confidential, and used to hearing from LGBTQ+ people about everything from loneliness and stress to relationships, identity and grief.

Crisis & 24/7 helplines

If things feel overwhelming or unsafe, these services are open around the clock. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness — and you can contact them whether the crisis is yours or someone you care about. You don't have to be sure it's "bad enough"; if you're hurting, that's reason enough.

• Samaritans — 116 123. Free, 24/7, 365 days a year, for anyone in distress. You can also email jo@samaritans.org.
• Text About It — text HELLO to 50808. Ireland's free 24/7 crisis text line — helpful if you find it easier to type than talk.
• Pieta — 1800 247 247 (or text HELP to 51444). Free crisis support for anyone affected by suicide or self-harm, and for those bereaved by suicide.

LGBTQ+-friendly support

It can make a real difference to talk to someone who gets the LGBTQ+ experience — minority stress, coming out, family, discrimination — without having to explain or defend it. These services are run by and for our community.

Worried about someone else?

If a friend, partner or hookup seems to be struggling, you don't need to fix it — being there matters more than having answers. Ask directly and kindly how they're doing, listen without rushing to solutions, and don't be afraid to ask whether they're thinking about suicide; asking does not plant the idea, and it can be a relief to be asked. Encourage them gently towards one of the services above, and if they're in immediate danger, call 112 or 999 and stay with them.

Across the EU

Wherever you are in Europe, there is a helpline near you. Mental Health Europe and the international Find A Helpline directory can point you to free, confidential support in your country and language.

See also Anxiety, low mood & loneliness, Substance use & chemsex support, and LGBTQ+ support.