Mental health support

With half a million Scottish people facing extreme fuel poverty, it’s more important than ever that we look after ourselves and each other.  

If things are getting on top of you or someone you know, the following organisations can help.  

Each service is free and confidential.   

Breathing Space  

Breathing Space offer support over the phone and via webchat. Anyone in Scotland who is aged over 16 and suffering from low mood, depression, or anxiety can use their service.  

The freephone number for Breathing Space is 0800 83 85 87.  

Their phonelines are open Mon–Thurs: 6pm to 2am, Fri: 6pm–Monday 6am, Sat & Sun: 24 hours a day.  

Samaritans  

Samaritans offer support by phone, email or letter. There is no age restriction. Samaritans will support anyone who is in emotional distress, finding it hard to cope, or considering suicide.   

The freephone number for Samaritans is 116 123.  

Their phonelines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

Shout  

Shout offers support via text message. They’re there for anyone who is struggling to cope.  

Text the word ‘shout’ free to 85258.  

You can text Shout 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

Your doctor  

Your doctor will be able to help with mental health concerns. They may prescribe medication and/or refer you to other support services.  

NHS 24   

NHS 24 provides out-of-hours urgent mental health support.   

NHS 24’s freephone number is 111.  

The phoneline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To help with their high volume of calls, NHS 24 advise that you should call 111 if your GP’s surgery is closed.