I need someone to talk to
Sometimes life can feel difficult, even when you cannot explain why.
You might be feeling lonely, frightened, overwhelmed, anxious, sad or simply exhausted by everything happening around you.
Perhaps something has happened that you have never told anyone. Perhaps you are worried about someone else, or feel that nobody understands what you are going through.
Or perhaps you just want a friendly voice at the other end of the telephone.
You do not need to be in crisis to deserve someone who will listen.
There are people you can speak to confidentially, without having to explain everything perfectly.
Jacob's House can help you find an established listening service in the United Kingdom.
Are you in immediate danger?
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, or you believe someone's life is at risk, call emergency services.
999If you need urgent mental health support but there is no immediate danger, contact an appropriate NHS urgent care service.
Someone you can talk to
Choose the way of talking that feels most comfortable.
Talk to someone, day or night
Samaritans
If something is troubling you, Samaritans offers a listening ear without judgement or pressure.
You do not need to be suicidal to contact them.
116 123Free to call, 24 hours a day, every day.
Contact SamaritansPrefer to talk by text?
Shout
Shout provides free, confidential text-based support for people experiencing emotional distress or crisis.
Text SHOUT to:
85258Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Find out about ShoutUnder 19 and need to talk?
Childline
Childline offers free, confidential support for children and young people under 19.
You can talk about anything that is worrying you, however big or small it may seem.
0800 1111You can also use their website for online counsellor chat and messaging.
Visit ChildlineFeeling lonely in later life?
The Silver Line — Age UK
A free telephone service offering friendship, conversation and support for people aged 55 or over.
You can call even if you simply want a friendly conversation.
0800 470 80 90Free to call, 24 hours a day, every day.
The Silver LineWhat should I say when I call?
You do not need to prepare anything in advance.
You could begin with something as simple as:
"I'm having a difficult time and I need someone to talk to."
Or:
"I'm not really sure what is wrong, but I don't feel okay."
It is also fine to say that you feel nervous about making the call.
You can take your time. You do not have to share more than you feel ready to share.
What if I need more than a conversation?
Sometimes talking is a helpful first step, but you may also need ongoing support or specialist advice.
If your feelings are affecting your everyday life, you can speak to your GP about mental health support.
If you are frightened, being threatened or experiencing abuse, specialist organisations can help you explore safer options.
You may find these Jacob's House pages helpful:
You do not have to explain everything
Some people find it easier to speak to someone they do not know personally.
Others prefer to start with a trusted friend, family member, teacher or healthcare professional.
There is no single right way to begin a conversation.
Choose the approach that feels safest and most manageable for you.
About Jacob's House
Jacob's House is a UK signposting resource helping people find established support services.
We do not provide counselling, crisis intervention or an emergency listening service.
You do not need to register or share personal details with Jacob's House to use these resources.
