Good to Talk · Helping a mate · Free. Always.
Useful words when you don't know what to say
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. If you need urgent mental-health help but it is not an emergency, in England call NHS 111 and select the mental-health option or use NHS 111 online where appropriate.
You don't need a perfect speech. You need to be present and believable.
Try simple
“That sounds really hard.” “I'm glad you told me.” “You don't have to sort this tonight.” “What would help right now?”
Ask what they need
Listening, practical help, company, a lift to an appointment or help finding professional support are different things. Ask rather than assuming.
Don't promise what you cannot safely promise
If somebody tells you they may be in danger, do not promise absolute secrecy. Their safety matters more than keeping a dangerous secret.
Useful next pages
Trusted help & further reading
- NHS — where to get urgent help for mental health
- NHS Every Mind Matters — helping others
- Samaritans — if you're worried about someone else
This section is practical guidance, not emergency or clinical care. If somebody's safety is at immediate risk, use emergency services.