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.

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?

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.

If I contact a helpline, who will I talk to?

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?

Helplines are there for anyone who might be in need of free support for mental and behavioral health problems. If you are struggling with something specific, such as suicide, depression, anxiety, or domestic violence, there are often helplines that cater specifically to these issues. You may also be able to contact a helpline related to your demographic, such as helplines that are specifically for teenagers, veterans or the LGBTQ+ community. A lot of helplines provide support for a variety of mental and behavioral health issues, so you can talk with them about anything that is concerning you.

Do helplines and hotlines support with thoughts of suicide?

Most countries have a suicide hotline or suicide prevention line (often called a lifeline or crisis line) available 24/7. These helplines provide compassionate support for people who might be having feelings of wanting to die or kill themselves. Commonly, suicide hotlines will also support anyone, regardless of what they are going through.

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

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.