Top 5 Free Mental Health Helplines in the UK (2025 Guide)

Sometimes, all you need is someone who will listen — right now.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, loneliness, or a low point, these free mental health helplines offer confidential support from trained volunteers and professionals across the UK.

Here are five trusted options you can call or message today 👇

1️⃣ Samaritans — 24/7 Emotional Support

• 📞 Call: 116 123 (free, 24 hours a day)
• 🌐 Website: samaritans.org
• 💬 What they offer: Non-judgmental emotional support for anyone feeling distressed, struggling to cope, or having suicidal thoughts.

Samaritans operate 365 days a year, no referral needed, no waiting list.

2️⃣ Shout — Text-Based Mental Health Support

• 💬 Text: SHOUT to 85258 (free, 24/7)
• 🌐 Website: giveusashout.org
• 🧠 What they offer: Free, confidential text chat with trained volunteers for anxiety, panic, depression, or loneliness.

Perfect if you prefer to type instead of talk.

3️⃣ Mind Infoline — Advice & Information

• 📞 Call: 0300 123 3393
• 💬 Text: 86463
• 🌐 Website: mind.org.uk
• 🕐 Hours: Mon–Fri, 9 am–6 pm
• 🧭 What they offer: Guidance on types of mental health problems, treatment options, and local support services.

Mind’s local branches also appear on our Free Support Map.

4️⃣ CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)

• 📞 Call: 0800 58 58 58 (5 pm–midnight, daily)
• 💬 Chat: thecalmzone.net
• 👥 Who it’s for: Anyone feeling down or suicidal — originally aimed at men, now open to all.

CALM also runs community campaigns and peer projects to prevent suicide.

5️⃣ The Mix — Support for Under-25s

• 📞 Call: 0808 808 4994 (3 pm–midnight, daily)
• 💬 Text: THEMIX to 85258
• 🌐 Website: themix.org.uk
• 🎯 What they offer: Free, confidential help for young people covering mental health, relationships, money worries, and more.

🧘 Bonus: NHS Urgent Mental Health Helplines

If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can call an NHS urgent helpline anytime.
👉 Find your local NHS urgent helpline

These are run by local NHS trusts and connect you directly to mental health professionals 24/7.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Reaching out takes courage — and these helplines exist to help you through those moments.
Whether it’s a late-night text to Shout or a call to Samaritans, there’s always someone ready to listen.

You can also explore our verified free services across the UK or check local community wellbeing hubs on MindSpace Map for in-person support.