Most people feel emotionally overwhelmed at some point in their lives. For many this passes quite quickly but for others the feeling can be overwhelming, last for a considerable time or can keep reoccurring. If you feel you need someone to talk to about your problems you should speak to your GP or a health or social care worker if you are in contact with one. If your surgery is closed or you need to speak to someone urgently you should contact NHS 24 through the details below – In emergency circumstances call 999.

NHS 24

is an online and out-of-hours phone service providing the Scottish people with access to health advice and information 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

NHS 24 operates an out-of-hours phone service providing help if your GP surgery is closed and you are too ill to wait until it re-opens.

During the call you will be asked about your location and your reason for contacting the service. This will be used to direct your call to a suitable health professional, such as a nurse, pharmacist or dental nurse. They will talk to you about your symptoms and tell you what care they think you need. They might suggest that you treat yourself at home, that you see a doctor or another health professional or, in some cases, they might call an ambulance for you.

You can contact the NHS 24 phone service on 111

Breathing Space

We are a free, confidential, phone service for anyone in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.

We are here in times of difficulty to provide a safe and supportive space by listening, offering advice and providing information.

It is our belief and hope that by empowering people, they will have the resources to recover.

Call free on: 0800 83 85 87

Visit our website for helpful information about dealing with low mood, depression and anxiety or to use our web chat, when advisors are available at https://breathingspace.scot/

Samaritans

Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever’s getting to you. You don’t have to be suicidal.

Find out why our service works and what you can expect when contacting us.

If you have any concerns about our service before you try it, hear from others about how we’ve helped them. Please don’t suffer alone.

Call free on: 116 123

Childline

Childline is here to help anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through.

You can talk about anything. Whether it’s something big or small, our trained counsellors are here to support you.

Childline is free, confidential and available any time, day or night. You can talk to us:

by calling free on 0800 1111
by email
through 1-2-1 counsellor chat

Whatever feels best for you.

NHS inform

NHS inform is Scotland’s national health information service.

Our aim is to provide the people in Scotland with accurate and relevant information to help them make informed decisions about their own health and the health of the people they care for.

For advice on dealing with low mood, anxiety, phobias, stress and where you can get help visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/mental-wellbeing

For information about identifying, treating and managing mental health problems and disorders visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health