If you are struggling with your mental health or concerned about a loved one, consider contacting a helpline for quick and free support. 5 helplines and hotlines are available in Brussels, Belgium.

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

What are helplines or hotlines?

Helplines offer immediate mental health support to the public for free. When you contact a helpline, you will receive confidential counseling support either over the phone, text message or online chat. In some countries, helplines are also known as hotlines or crisis lines.

How will a helpline or hotline support me?

Helplines provide a judgment-free space for you to talk, unpack your burdens and receive support. Their support may take the form of active listening, help processing emotions, and working with you to determine meaningful next steps.

Who will I talk to when I contact a helpline?

The people on the other end of a helpline or hotline are often counselors or volunteers who are trained in crisis counseling and active listening, and can offer you a safe space to talk freely about what's bothering you. Some helplines are staffed by peers who have some personal experience in the issue the helpline supports with.

What issues can I talk to a helpline about?

Helplines offer free support to people who are experiencing mental health problems or an emotional crisis. Some helplines offer support for specific problems, such as suicide, domestic violence, abuse, anxiety, and depression, while others support particular types of people such as teenagers, children, the LGBTQ+ community or veterans. Some helplines support with any topic or issue, so you can talk to them about whatever you're going through.

What is a suicide hotline?

If you've had thoughts about harming yourself or even ending your life, there are suicide prevention hotlines that can help. These helplines, otherwise known as lifelines or crisis lines, are typically available to offer support 24/7. Most suicide hotlines also support with any topic that is on your mind, which means you don't have to be suicidal to contact them.

Can I contact a helpline for support with a person I'm worried about?

Helplines aren't just for the times when you need support. They can also be helpful if you're worried about someone else. When you contact a helpline for advice about someone you care about, they will talk with you about how you might support the person. This might look like support resources that person is able to access, or behaviors or actions you can take to help their situation.

I'm in Brussels, Belgium. What hotlines and helplines are available to me?

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

Today, there are over 2,000 helplines globally. Helplines offer support for a wide range of experiences and populations, but they all share the same objective: to assist people who are going through emotional pain or mental health struggles. You may think that your problem isn't significant enough, or that it's too much. These concerns are normal. Helpline responders are prepared to help no matter what you're going through.