Skip to content Accesskeys Newsroom

What to do if you're in crisis or despair

Lifeline 0808 808 8000 If you’re in crisis or despair - or you’re worried that someone you know is - help is available. You’re not alone; talk to someone you trust. Sharing a problem is often the first step to recovery.

Help and support

Someone who’s having suicidal thoughts may not ask for help, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want help and support. It can be difficult finding the words to express what they are feeling.

You can find out more about what to do if you think someone might be in need of immediate help at the page below:

Lifeline

If you or someone you know needs help now, you can call Lifeline free, in confidence, 24/7 on 0808 808 8000.

Lifeline is a crisis response helpline available to people of all ages across Northern Ireland. It offers immediate help over the phone 24/7 if you, or someone you know, is in distress or despair.

All calls are answered by qualified counsellors who are available to listen, help and support your needs in confidence. They are experienced in dealing with a range of issues including self-harm, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide and sexual violence and abuse.

Remember, Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Just call.

Recognising potential warning signs

Suicide prevention begins with recognising warning signs that someone may be considering taking their own life. The signs include:

  • talking about death or suicide
  • pre-occupation with death
  • depression
  • hopelessness
  • alcohol and drug misuse
  • low self-esteem
  • bereavement
  • break-up of relationship
  • changes in behaviour
  • previous history of suicide attempts or family
  • self-loathing or self-hatred
  • getting affairs in order
  • social isolation
  • self-destructive behaviour
  • sudden sense of calm or appearing very up-beat following a period of depression

Avoiding the topic is not the answer. Discussing suicide in an open, non-judgmental, sensitive, discreet and practical way can allow someone in crisis to know that help is available and they are not alone.

More useful links