If you want to self-harm

We're here to listen. No pressure, no judgement.

For every 10 calls we answer, one is about self-harm. And many people call us because they want to avoid harming themselves in that moment.

Seeking help is an important first step, and the NHS recommends that if you’re self-harming you should start by talking to your GP.

If you have hurt yourself and need immediate medical attention, the quickest way to get support is to call 999 for an ambulance. We can call an ambulance for you, if you want us to.

Your GP should take your self-harm seriously. You can read more about what your GP can do to help you here. Remember, you can always to speak with a second doctor if you think you’re not being offered the support you need; your GP surgery should be able to advise you how to go about this.

It can be helpful to ask a friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment to give you extra support.

Samaritans is here for anyone who is going through a difficult time, and many of our callers talk to us about self-harm during emotional support calls. Whatever you’re facing, we’re here to listen without judgement or pressure, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In most situations and for most people we are a confidential service and we won’t tell anyone about our conversation, or even that you called, unless you ask us to. However, there are important exceptions to this.

We won't call emergency services, except for in these circumstances:

• You ask us to, and you’re unable to call for yourself
• You’ve already told us your address, location or phone number, and then become incoherent or unconscious during the call
• You’re in one of our branches, and you’ve harmed yourself in a way that puts you in danger at that time
• You are a child or an adult at risk  
• Your situation fits one of the reasons why we cannot maintain confidentiality.

You can read more about these exemptions in our safeguarding policy.

We know it can be difficult to know where to go for help.

This list includes some of the other support services that are available, both online and in-person, and should provide a useful starting point.

If you are looking for a professional counsellor (who will usually charge for their services), you can contact BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) on 01455 883300. They also have an online directory.

You may also find it helpful to take a look at the NHS apps library. This is a list of apps vetted by the NHS to ensure they’re based on good evidence. You can search for self-harm apps and there are a large number on mental health.

In the Republic of Ireland as in the UK, the HSE recommends that you see your GP if you are self-harming.

You could also contact the organisations below.