Across Ireland over 2,200 Samaritans volunteers make sure that there’s someone there - day or night if you’re struggling to cope.
They are here to listen; no judgement, no pressure, to help you work through what's on your mind. Samaritans provide a service that’s not only for a moment of crisis. They offer listening and support to people in times of need so that they can help them avoid getting to a point of crisis.
People contact them with all sorts of concerns and what might be a small issue to you may be huge to someone else. You don’t have to be suicidal to contact Samaritans. You could be going through something new or have been struggling to cope for some time; either way, they're here for some extra support.
During the ongoing pandemic, worries about isolation, mental ill-health and family are common. The knock-on effects of social distancing and lockdowns, and the fear of being exposed to the virus has resulted in some callers appearing increasingly distressed, hopeless, and feeling trapped without the support they need.
Whatever you're going through, you can call them any time, from any phone for free. If it feels too upsetting to talk about on the phone, you can email them, and a Samaritans volunteer will answer.
If you are feeling more anxious and are finding things tough, the Samaritans Ireland website has lots of online resources and support.
The Self-Help web app can help you keep track of how you are feeling, and offer recommendations for things you can do to help yourself cope, feel better and stay safe in a crisis.
For more information log on to https://www.samaritans.org/ireland/how-we-can-help/, the 24 hour freephone helpline is available at 116 123 or email their helpline at [email protected].
