Grief, worry and hard days
Who can I talk to when I'm struggling but it's not an emergency?
In the UK you can call Samaritans free on 116 123 at any time about anything, ring NHS 111 and choose the mental health option for urgent but non-emergency help, see your GP, or refer yourself to NHS talking therapies in England. In the US, 988 takes calls and texts. If you're in danger, call 999 or 911.
Why is this harder than it sounds?
Many people who are struggling feel they're not 'bad enough' to deserve help, so they wait until things get much worse. Others don't know the difference between the services, or worry about wasting someone's time. In fact, several services exist precisely for the space between 'fine' and 'emergency'. The NHS lists free listening services such as Samaritans, and says you can talk about anything that's troubling you, no matter how difficult.
What can help?
- 01
Talk to someone you trust
A friend, family member, colleague or faith leader. The NHS lists talking about your feelings as one of the first things to try.
- 02
Call a listening line
Samaritans (116 123, UK and Ireland) are free and open 24 hours a day. If you're under 19 in the UK, Childline is on 0800 1111. In the US and Canada, call or text 988.
- 03
Use NHS 111 for urgent help
If you need urgent help for your mental health but it isn't an emergency, the NHS says to use 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option.
- 04
See your GP
The NHS suggests seeing a GP if you're struggling to cope, have had a low mood for more than 2 weeks, or things you're trying aren't helping.
- 05
Refer yourself for talking therapy
In England, you can refer yourself directly to NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression without seeing a GP first.
- 06
Know when it's an emergency
Call 999 (UK) or 911 (US), or go to A&E, if you or someone else needs immediate help or has seriously harmed themselves. The NHS says a mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a medical one.
What tends not to work
Waiting until it's 'serious enough'. These services are for anyone who is struggling.
Assuming your GP only deals with physical health. Mental health is a big part of what GPs do.
Relying only on apps, including AI companions, when you need professional help.
Common questions
Can I call Samaritans if I'm not suicidal?
Yes. Samaritans say you can call them about whatever you're going through. The call to 116 123 is free from landlines and mobiles.
Do I need a GP referral for therapy?
In England, no. You can refer yourself directly to NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression, though you can also ask your GP to refer you.
Where Vangie fits
Someone who checks on you
Vangie is an AI companion, not a counsellor or a crisis line, and she'll tell you so. What she can do is listen at any hour, help you put into words what's going on, and encourage you to reach the right person. If something you say suggests you might be in danger, she gives you real numbers, including 999, 911, Samaritans and 988, and encourages you to contact a living person right away. She can also check in on you by chat or phone on the rhythm you choose.
Sources and support
General information, not medical or mental health advice. Vangie is an AI companion: not a licensed counsellor, therapist, doctor or member of the clergy, and not an emergency service. If you are worried about your mental health, talk to your GP or doctor; in the UK, NHS 111 can help if you need urgent help but it isn't an emergency.