Mental health crisis
If you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, call 111 and select the mental health option (option 2). This call is free and will enable you to speak to a mental health professional in Cornwall. Anyone, any age, any time. You can also call the Samaritans on 116 123 or text ‘Shout’ to 85258
Call 999 or go to the emergency department now if:
- someone's life is at risk, for example they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose
- you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe
People in Mind
A collaboration between a number of community sector organisations. They offer non-urgent mental health support for people who are 16 and older in in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. You can call 01872 266383 via a dedicated telephone line 7 days a week 8am – 8pm or email welcome@kernowgateway.org.uk
If you want to talk or text someone who can help:
Samaritans free to call from landline? or mobile 24/7 365 days a year 116 123, or via web chat on their website.
SHOUT - a 24/7 text service for anyone who is in a crisis. You can text for free to 85258
Papyrus (for people under 35) 0800 068 4141 (Mon-Fri 10am-10pm Sat-Sun 2pm-10pm and bank holidays 2pm–5pm or text 07786 209 697
Additional resources for emotional and psychological wellbeing can be found on the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust website.
Children and young people support
Take a look at our Mental health support for parents, carers and young people page for information on supporting children and young people experiencing mental health difficulties here. There is also information for parents and carers.
Have you or someone else been affected by suicide?
Being bereaved by suicide can have an impact on loved ones left behind.
You can find out more about the specialist support available to help you on our affected by suicide page, whether the person who died was a friend, family member, work colleague, or someone you are connected with through work.
Helping to prevent suicide
You would not be alone in thinking that suicide is a complicated, and at times distressing topic to learn about. However, we also live in a caring county where people want to help and support their family, friends, work colleagues and even strangers. If you are interested in learning more about helping prevent suicide, you can find out more in our Suicide Prevention Strategy.
How to help someone who is feeling suicidal
If you are concerned that someone is feeling suicidal, they have already made an attempt at suicide, or they have told you that they are intending to end their life and they are in immediate danger then you should call 999.
If someone has said that they have thoughts of suicide and that they don't know what they want to do, then you should support them to call their GP, and tell the receptionist the situation.
If you would like to take part in free training to help you talk to people about suicide you can find information on training and dates on the Healthy Cornwall website, and click on suicide first aid.
Staying Safe Website
The Staying Safe website has instant online access to help you talk to someone, and the best ways to help them. It's important that the person you are talking to feels listened to, and that someone cares about them.