If you or someone close to you is in distress or immediate danger in Singapore, call 995.
There are times when you or someone you know is thinking about self-harm or has suicidal thoughts. It's important to seek immediate help when this happens. With timely help and support, you or the person you know can be kept safe from harm.
Contact these helplines and get support for you and your loved ones now
SOS 24-Hour Hotline
SOS provides emotional support to those in crisis, thinking about suicide or affected by suicide
mindline.sg
mindline.sg chat provides 24-hour support for any help you need with mental health
Silver Ribbon (Singapore)
Silver Ribbon provides counselling and crisis resolution services for people with mental illness
SAMH Helpline
SAMH provides help and counselling for people with mental illness and their families
What you should know about helping someone in distress or in crisis
It can be unsettling when someone you know seems to be going through emotional distress or a mental health crisis. Knowing what to say and do at the right time may have a significant positive impact that could even save lives.
Understand that each person is different so listening empathetically and without judgement helps. Do remember that your own mental health is important and reach out for help if you need it.
How to provide emotional support
Friends, family and work colleagues can be crucial sources of wellbeing support for someone going through a tough time or showing possible signs of anxiety and depression. Here are some steps you can take to guide you in starting these conversations about mental health.
Find a time and private place with no distractions
Let the person decide what and how much they want to share
Don't second-guess their feelings
Ask open-ended questions
Talk about their emotional wellbeing
Listen carefully and try to repeat what is being said
Know your limits and offer support for them to seek professional help or counselling
Don't be disappointed if the person in need does not want to continue the conversation at any stage. Remind them gently that you care and provide them with information from mental health agencies or professional services that may be able to help them further.