Worried about someone else?

Being worried about someone is hard. You don’t need the right words or a diagnosis to help.

Things that usually help

• Ask, gently and directly. “I’ve noticed you seem different lately. How are you, really?”
• Listen more than you advise. You don’t have to fix it.
• Encourage support. Offer to help them book a GP appointment or find a service, or to go with them.
• Look after yourself too. Supporting someone can be draining.

Where to get guidance

• Samaritans: if you’re worried about someone else
• Samaritans 116 123 — for them, or for you, any time.
• Lifeline (Northern Ireland) 0808 808 8000 also supports people worried about someone.
• If it’s about gambling, drugs or drinking: National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133 (also for family and friends), FRANK 0300 123 6600, Drinkline 0300 123 1110.
• If it’s about eating: Beat (see helplines).

Every contact on this page is kept in a controlled list and was last checked against each organisation’s own website on 26 September 2026. We never publish a phone number that has not been checked this way. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.