Need help now? Call free on 0800 83 85 87

Opening hours

Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2am

Weekend: Friday 6pm-Monday 6am

This service is for people in Scotland

Worried about someone?

Mental ill-health is common

One in four of us will experience a mental health problem each year.


Mental illness can leave sufferers and those close to them confused and isolated. Not only do they have to cope with symptoms of the illness itself and its effects, but often also with the social stigma still wrongly associated with mental health conditions.

There are now many organisations and sources of support that can help those affected feel less alone and more informed about the illness, their rights and treatments available.

Scotland’s Service Directory on NHS inform is a useful tool for finding organisations in Scotland which may be able to help.


Signs of depression

How do I know if someone is depressed?

How can I help?

How can I help someone who is depressed?

Talking about suicide?

What do I do if someone talks about suicide?

Talk to an advisor at Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 if you have concerns about someone you know.

If you use a textphone you can contact Breathing Space on 18001 0800 22 44 88. Or, you can use the Relay UK app.

Other information

Breathing Space is open:

24 hours at weekends (6pm Friday – 6am Monday).

6pm to 2am on weekdays (Monday – Thursday).

Phone and speak to a Breathing Space advisor on 0800 83 85 87.

Use a textphone to contact Breathing Space on 18001 0800 22 44 88, or use the Relay UK app.

If you are feeling distressed, in a state of despair or suicidal outwith these hours you can contact:

NHS 24 on 111 or Samaritans on 116 123.

Calls to Samaritans are free, confidential and will be taken by a trained Samaritans volunteer. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Other languages and formats

This information is also available in:

British Sign Language (BSL)

Breathing Space Live Chat

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Breathing Space is available for anyone in Scotland over the age of 16. Childline can provide help and advice about a wide range of issues on 0800 1111 or http://www.childline.org.uk

< 16
16 - 18
19 - 24
25 - 34
35 - 44
45 - 54
55 - 64
65 - 75
over 75
Female
Male
Prefer to self-describe
Prefer not to say