Whether you're experiencing a mental health crisis or you're worried about a loved one's mental health, free help is available to you. In Slovakia, there are 5 helplines that support with a range of mental health or behavioral health concerns.

Feeling hesitant to reach out is completely normal. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable.

What are helplines or hotlines?

Helplines, otherwise known as hotlines or crisis lines, offer free, confidential counseling support to people in emotional pain. Some offer support over the phone, and others over text message or online chat.

How will a helpline or hotline support me?

Whether you need a listening ear, or help with what to do next, helpline staff can help. They will ask you questions to help you process your emotions or situation. They can also collaborate with you on what steps you might take to improve your situation, which can help you feel more in control and confident about the future.

Who will I talk to when I contact a helpline?

Helplines are usually staffed by counselors and volunteers who are trained in how to support people in an emotional crisis. Some helplines are also run by peers who have a similar life experience to the topic they provide support with.

What issues can I talk to a helpline about?

Some helplines offer support for specific problems like suicide, depression, anxiety, domestic violence and sexual assault. Others help with certain demographics, such as veterans, youth or the LGBTQ+ community. Many helplines offer support for all kinds of mental and behavioral health problems – this means you can talk to them about anything that is on your mind.

What is a suicide hotline?

Suicide prevention hotlines or lifelines are available in many countries. They exist to provide compassionate support to people who are feeling hopeless or are thinking of ending their lives. Suicide hotlines commonly support with all topics, which means they can help with any kind of problem, even if it's not suicide related. They are usually reachable at all hours of the day and night.

Will a helpline talk to me about someone I'm concerned about?

Yes. You can get in touch with a helpline if you're concerned about a loved one and don't know how to help. The helpline responder will talk with you about ways you can support the person you care about, including any available support networks and any actions or behaviours you can do to help them.

I'm in Slovakia. What hotlines and helplines are available to me?

In Slovakia, there are 5 hotlines and helplines that support with a range of topics.

The first helpline was founded in 1953. Today, there are over 2,000 globally. While there is a wide variety in the types of topics or populations helplines support today, they are united by a common thread: to help those who are experiencing emotional distress or crisis to find a meaningful path ahead. Whether it's you who needs support, or whether you have questions about a loved one who is showing warning signs of distress, calling a helpline can help you get the support you need and deserve.