Support for parents with suicidal thoughts

If you are having thoughts of ending your life, it’s important you seek support. Contact one of the helplines below, or read our advice on looking after yourself.

If you’re at risk of immediate harm or danger, call 999 or visit A&E.

Everyone feels low from time to time, but if it’s affecting how you feel about being alive you should make sure you speak to someone. You can contact one of the below services:

• Call the Samaritans 24/7 listening service on 116 123.
• Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for a confidential, anonymous text support service.
• Papyrus, for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or worried about someone else. Call 0800 068 4141 or text 07860039967. 9am – midnight.
• Call an NHS urgent mental health helpline (England only).
• Your GP.

You can also find tactics to help you cope with difficult thoughts and keep yourself safe.

• Read Mind’s tips on how to avoid acting on suicidal thoughts.
• Consider talking therapy. Your GP can refer you for this, or you can refer yourself.
• Let others know. Share how you feel with family or friends, or someone else you trust. If they’re aware how you feel they may be able to offer support.
• Create a ‘safety plan’ with the support of a professional. A safety plan can help you work through your thoughts and feelings, notice any triggers, and work out what helps. You can also share it with anyone who may be able to support you. Papyrus is one organisation that can help with this.
• Download the NHS distrACT app. The app provides information and advice from doctors and experts in self-harming and suicide prevention.
• Get a ‘mind plan’ from NHS Every Mind Matters. The tools offers ideas for looking after your mental health day-to-day.
• Talk to your GP, for ongoing local support.

It also might help to understand more about what you’re going through. Read more about suicidal feelings and support at Mind.

Remember that parenting is different for everyone, and it’s not always easy. It’s important to look after yourself. If you’re in crisis, please call 999 or one of the helplines listed above.

Our parenting coaches are here to help with the day-to-day issues of parenting and how to support the wellbeing of your family in the longer-term. Our opening times are:

• Monday 12.30pm – 7.30pm
• Tuesday 10.30am – 4.30pm
• Wednesday 9.30am – 4.30pm
• Thursday 12.30pm – 7.30pm
• Friday 9.30am – 4pm

Visit our chat page to start a conversation. If our coaches aren’t online, you can leave us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.