Your First Step
We are so glad that you have made the brave choice in taking your first step in talking to someone. The biggest hurdle to get past can be acknowledging that you may need to help.
We have our own helpline here if you would like to call:
Everything you talk about will be kept in confidence, with no judgement or bias. Much like when you talk with our chatbot. But with the real, human interaction and support.
But you also have plenty of other options for helplines to call, should you wish to. We have listed a few for you below:
Helplines
If you or someone you care about needs immediate support, please so not hesitate to call one of these numbers.
Samaritans: Call 116 123 for free, at any time, to talk about anything that is troubling you.
Shout Crisis Text Line: Text SHOUT to 85258 for confidential support via text message if you prefer to not speak on the phone.
Childline (for those under 19): Call 0800 1111 or use their 1-2-1 online chat to speak with a counsellor. This is Specialised Support.
The Silver Line (Aged 55+): Call 0800 4 70 80 90 for friendship and conversation if you are feeling lonely or isolated.
Calm (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Call 0800 58 58 58 or use their webchat (5pm-Midnight Daily) for support with any life issues.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Call 0808 2000 247 at any time for confidential support.
MyFriend: Our platform. Where you can talk with our AI chatbot at any time of day, asking questions about worries and concerns you may have. Or you ca submit one our forms to speak with someone instead and they’ll get back to you within 24 hours or sooner. As with all the options provided above, the call with be confidential, judgement free and most importantly, safe. (Currently only in English)
Human Conversations & Connections
If you are looking for a more human and general conversation. Here are some suggestions you who you can talk to:
Friends & Family: Reach out to a loved one, someone you trust for a chat about daily life or deeper concerns.
Online Communities: The internet is a wonderful place to find likeminded people, with similar hobbies and interests from around the world. You can also talk with any of our MyFriend chatbots, Amy, Alex and Sam, who will be able to talk with you about any of your interests.
How to Start a Personal Conversation:
We know it can be hard to approach a friend or family member to talk about more serious and personal subjects. But here are some steps on how to get started:
- Pick someone you trust. In a quiet place where you wont be rushed.
- Start small. Baby steps can feel like miles when talking about certain subjects. Why not start with something like this: ‘Hey, I’ve been finding things a bit hard lately. Can we talk about it?’
- Be Honest. Honesty is key, and also the hardest part. But whoever you are talking to wont be able to help if they’re aren’t getting the whole truth.
- Clarify your Needs. Sometimes it actually helps more just having someone you can speak at rather than advice or even searching for professional support. But you need to make sure that you say that.
If there is an immediate danger to your life, please call 999 or if you are able, go to your nearest A&E.
Tips for Talking to Someone:
Ask Open Ended Questions: Try starting your conversation with, ‘How was your day?’ or ‘Where are you from?’ This can relax whoever you are talking with and garner more than a ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ response.
Listen Actively: Give your full attention at all times. Show interest and ask follow up questions to keep the conversation flowing naturally.
Share About Yourself: Build a connection with brief stories or experiences of your own that may relate to the topic.
Create Safety: Make the other person feel as comfortable as possible. Ensuring they aren’t feeling judged by being present and curious in the conversation, not critical.
