Get 24/7 support whenever you need it
- Call Samaritans on 116 123
- Text Shout on 85258
- Call Papyrus HopelineUK on 0800 068 4141
- Hub of Hope
- Stay Alive App
- In an emergency call 999
Feeling lonely
Many of us feel lonely at different times in our life but if you feel that loneliness is affecting your wellbeing and life then talk to someone you can trust about it.
What to do if you're feeling lonely
It’s important to be honest about how you’re feeling with those that you trust. You may find it easier to talk to someone you don’t know. Samaritans are there to listen 24/7 on 116 123 or if you prefer to message, you can text Shout to 85258.
If you can’t see the people you care about face to face, think of other ways to keep connected. You could arrange a video call, set up an online film or book club, play an online game or watch a virtual event together.
You could also reach out to someone you’ve not spoken to for a while, most of us enjoy hearing from someone we’ve lost touch with. Or you could set up a group chat if you find it easier to talk as part of a group.
Some people find volunteering to help others a great way to boost wellbeing and connect with people in their community. Others have found that learning something new or pursuing a new hobby has helped them keep busy and meet new people.
Just remember, different people find different ideas useful at different times so don’t put pressure on yourself if you find that one of the suggestions doesn’t help right now.
For older people, MindEd have created a useful resource page with suggestions on how you can reverse the cycle. Have a look at the I Am Lonely page on their website.
Every Mind Matters - Loneliness
Loneliness. It's a part of life. Let's talk about it. Find out about the possible signs of loneliness, reasons we feel lonely and ways to manage it.
Samaritans
Call the Samaritans on 116 123, they are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Papyrus
HOPELINEUK is a helpline for young people up to the age of 35 or those concerned for someone. It is open 9am-10pm weekdays and 2-10pm on weekends and bank holidays.
Silverline
A confidential, free helpline for older people that is open 24/7 providing information, advice and friendship.
LGBT Foundation
Support, advice and information for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities across Greater Manchester. It also runs Rainbow Brew Buddies, a befriending service for LGBTQ+ people.
Let's Talk Loneliness
Tips and support to help people keep connected, including a calendar to help people keep connected this winter.
British Red Cross
How to make connections, build coping skills and get support when you're feeling lonely.
Belong
Co-Op Foundation's UK-wide programme to help young people beat loneliness through co-operative action.
Mind
Tips and suggestions for managing feelings of loneliness.
Age UK
Wide range of services for older people including telephone friendship and befriending service.
Talk About it Mate
Talk About it Mate is a general mental health community offering peer support groups and activity's to adults 18+ who would like to connect with others to benefit their mental health, mood, wellbeing etc.
Talk About it Mater are not a service for those at crisis point and will signpost these people to a more appropriate source of support.
NHS
Advice and where to get support for people struggling with feeling lonely.
George House Trust
George House Trust is a charity providing services including one-to-one support, counselling, peer support and groups, advice and information for people living with HIV.
Shining a light on suicide
The website has been commissioned by NHS Greater Manchester. The aim of the Shining a Light on Suicide campaign is to prevent suicide and provide support information for those bereaved by suicide and those dealing with suicidal thoughts.
