Helplines Awareness Day

Helplines provide critical, life-changing support for people facing distress, uncertainty and crisis. 

This year’s theme, ‘The Power of Helplines’, focuses on how these services offer more than just information. Helplines provide a safe space for people to talk, be heard and receive support the support they need, when they need it and in a way which works best for them. 

In Scotland, helplines like our Advice and Support Service or NHS 24 Breathing Space play a key role in helping people through isolation, anxiety, financial worries and overwhelming emotions. They serve as a first step towards support, helping individuals understand their situation, develop coping strategies and access further help. 

Helplines to contact 

The Advice and Support Service (0808 8010 515) connects you to advisers who can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs.

Samaritans (116 123) is a 24-hour anonymous service available every day of the year. If you prefer not to speak on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.

Breathing Space (0800 83 85 87) is a website and phone service for anyone experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.

NHS 24 by dialling 111 if you feel you need to speak with a medical professional but cannot wait for your GP.

the impact of helplines – a story of support 

Recognising the impact of financial stress on mental health, Change Mental Health provides comprehensive Advice and Support Service to assist individuals facing money-related challenges. Take Cameron,  who reached out to the Advice and Support Service as the anniversary of his father’s passing approached. His depression, which had been ongoing for years, felt heavier as the date got closer, affecting his sleep, concentration at work and relationship with his wife. He felt isolated and had started using alcohol as a way to cope. 

When Cameron emailed the service, one of our Advice and Support Officers listened and gave him space to talk about what he was going through. They reassured him that he wasn’t alone and offered practical support, suggesting services that could help. This included mental health and bereavement support, substance use services and crisis helplines like Breathing Space and Samaritans. 

After their conversation, Cameron wrote back: 

“I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to listen to me and really hear what I’m going through. It’s such a relief to have someone to talk to honestly about everything. 

“Having those crisis service contacts means the world to me, especially with the weekend coming up. Even if I don’t end up using them, just knowing that they are available takes away so much of my anxiety. Thank you for being there for me.” 

Cameron’s story is a reminder of how a simple conversation can make a real difference. Having someone to talk to, who listens and offers support without pressure, gave him the reassurance he needed in a difficult moment. Helplines are not just about providing information. Helplines across Scotland offer comfort, connection and ensure that no one needs to face hard times alone. 

Read more about Cameron here.