If you're looking for mental health support, or you're worried that a loved one could be having a mental health crisis, contacting a hotline or helpline can help. There are 5 crisis services you can contact in Cornwall, England.

It's common to feel some anxiety about contacting a helpline. Learn more about what helplines offer so you can decide if it's right for you.

What are helplines or hotlines?

Helplines, also known as hotlines or crisis lines, exist to provide free, confidential help to anyone in need of emotional support. Some helplines offer their services over the phone, and others over text message or chat. Many are available 24/7.

What kind of support do helplines offer?

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 topics do helplines and hotlines assist with?

Helplines are crisis services that offer free support for a range of behavioral and mental health problems. There are helplines that are tailored to people experiencing particular types of emotional pain or crisis, such as suicide, depression, anxiety, abuse, and domestic violence. Others support particular demographics such as youth, children, veterans or the LGBTQ+ community. There are also helplines that will support you no matter what mental or behavioral health issues you may be experiencing.

What is a suicide hotline?

In most countries, there is access to a suicide hotline number that you can call if you're having thoughts about wanting to die or ending your life. Suicide hotlines, often called lifelines or crisis lines, are usually accessible 24/7. Many suicide hotlines also support with all topics.

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

It can be worrying when a friend or family member is struggling with their mental health or experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Helplines will support you to better help your loved one, whether that is actions you could take to support them, or external support they might be able to access.

I'm in Cornwall, England. What hotlines and helplines are available to me?

In Cornwall, England, 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.