On this page we offer some ideas of where to go to for support if you, or someone you know is suicidal, talking about suicide or worried about suicidal thoughts or feelings.
If this describes how you feel right now, firstly, well done for looking for help or support. We know that trans people experience higher rates of suicide, and that it can be very difficult trying to navigate services which often are not set out for trans people. We can offer peer support to trans people and their families – however you might need immediate support. If you feel you are in immediate danger, go somewhere you feel safe, such as a friend or relative’s house. If this is not possible or you feel you would rather speak to someone professional or who does not know you then we would suggest the following:
If you need someone to talk to right now, or at any time of the night or day, you can contact the Samaritans for free on 116 123. The Samaritans will listen to whatever you need to tell them and the service is confidential. Their ethos is that they value your right to decide and they will only ring for further help from other organisations if you request it. You don’t have to be suicidal to ring them. If you just need to talk through the things you are finding difficult they will listen – and that can often help to stop you getting to the point of feeling hopeless and perhaps suicidal. For more information look here
Mind have an “I need urgent help” button – this will take you through some simple steps, practical advice and information, and you do not need to be able to speak, just click or tap the screen you want to go to.
You can call your GP for an out of hours or emergency appointment, or if you do not feel able, ask someone else to do so.
You can call NHS 111 (England) or NHS Direct 0845 46 47 (Wales)
Crisis teams are NHS mental health specialists who will speak to you on the phone and may arrange to visit you or, if needed, to admit you to hospital. You can be referred by your GP or another medical professional. However you can also contact them yourself.
They should be available at any time but if you are not able to call them, or they are not available, you can visit A&E or call 999.
Local crisis team numbers are;
| Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Team | Contact Number |
| Cumbria | 01228 602000 |
| Gateshead | 0191 275 4949 |
| Hartlepool | 01429 285 858 |
| Middlesbrough | 01642 835 295 |
| Morpeth (covers Northumberland) | 0800 389 1406 |
| Newcastle and North Tyneside | 0191 219 4646 |
| North Durham | 0191 441 5738 |
| Redcar and Cleveland | 01642 838 300 |
| South Durham (includes Darlington) | 01325 552 230 |
| South Tyneside | 0303 123 1145 |
| Stockton | 01642 524 714 |
| Sunderland | 0303 123 1145 |
There are practical tips to help with suicidal feelings here and here
Remember you will not be judged for asking for help by any of these services or charities.
If you are supporting someone who has suicidal feelings:
- It is often very difficult to talk about these feelings, so be willing to listen, and give the person space to talk about how they feel.
- Try not to judge them – they have shown a huge amount of trust in you to confide these feelings.
- If you can, support the person in reaching out for help to one of the places listed above.
- Do not blame yourself if you were unaware, or did not realise someone was thinking about suicide. People often hide these feelings very well indeed.
- In an emergency call NHS direct, or 999
Remember your own self care, take time to look after your own mental health and wellbeing if you are supporting someone. There are some self care ideas here