Samaritans Talk To Us: Mental Health Awareness

Talk To Us is an annual mental health awareness campaign which aims to let people know that Samaritans are always here for anyone who needs someone to listen.

Talking to a supportive person who is willing to listen to you when you’re having a difficult time can often help ease symptoms of loneliness, anxiety, bereavement and depression. Talking about your problems is a useful way of working out solutions and feeling like you can cope better.

Contacting Samaritans: what can you expect?

Every six seconds, Samaritans answer a call for help. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, offering listening and support to people and communities in times of need. You can talk to someone on the phone, by email, letter, or in a branch.

When you call a Samaritan, they’ll often ask you your name as this is a natural question, but you don’t have to give it to them, the service is confidential and your telephone number won’t be displayed.

Whatever you tell a volunteer, they won’t be shocked by what you have to say, they have been trained to listen and won’t pass judgement. You will not be forced to reveal any personal information that you don’t feel comfortable with and you will be given the reins of the conversation.

You will never be told what to do about your situation or problem you’re facing, the volunteer will give you the opportunity to work out a solution.

How to contact Samaritans

Phone number: Call the Samaritans free on 116 123

You will be put through to a volunteer ASAP and your phone number will not appear for them.

Email: jo@samaritans.org

You will be contacted within 24 hours and your email address will not be shown.

Write a letter:

Chris

Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK

PO Box 9090

STIRLING FK8 2SA

Writing down your feelings is a personal way of getting your feelings across if you don’t have access to a phone or emails. You will need to provide an address if you want a personal reply, but your address on your letter will be destroyed once a reply is sent.

5 things to say to someone with depression

You don’t have to volunteer for Samaritans to help someone in their time of need. If you know a friend or family member is depressed, it’s important to check in with them and let them know you’re there for them. Saying the right phrases can make all the difference to someone who feels alone.

1. “I’m glad you’re in my life” - make someone feel appreciated about themselves and let them know they’re worthy.

2. “Take as long as you need” - depression can make the simplest of tasks feel overwhelming, allowing extra time to complete tasks can make a big difference.

3. “I don’t think you’re crazy” - remind your friend that it’s okay not to be okay. People who suffer from mental illness often feel different from everyone else. Let them know you like them just the way they are.

4. “I’m here for you” - knowing someone is there when we need them can bring great comfort and open up the lines of communication.

5. “Remember when…” - we sometimes get so caught up in the now that we often forget about happy memories in the past.