Self-harm

Explains self-harm, including possible causes and how you can access treatment and support. Includes tips for helping yourself, and guidance for friends and family.

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Useful contacts

Mind's services

Helplines – our Infolines provide information and support by phone, email and text.
Local Minds – provide face-to-face services, such as talking therapies, peer support and advocacy, across England and Wales.
Elefriends – our supportive online community for anyone experiencing a mental health problem.

Other organisations

British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)

babcp.com
Information about cognitive behavioural therapy and related treatments, including details of accredited therapists.

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

bacp.co.uk
Professional body for talking therapy and counselling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.

Harmless

harmless.org.uk
User-led organisation that supports people who self-harm, and their friends and family.

LifeSIGNS

lifesigns.org.uk
User-led self-harm guidance and support network.

The Mix

0808 808 4994
85258 (crisis messenger service, Text THEMIX)
themix.org.uk
Support and advice for under 25s, including webchat.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

nice.org.uk
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare.

National Self Harm Network (NSHN)

nshn.co.uk
Survivor-led online support forum for people who self-harm, their friends and families.

Patient Advice and Liaison Services (PALS)

nhs.uk/service-search/Patient-advice-and-liaison-services-(PALS)/LocationSearch
Offer confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters. You can find them by searching on NHS UK or asking a doctor or healthcare professional for their details.

Samaritans

116 123
samaritans.org
Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
[email protected]
24-hour emotional support for anyone who needs to talk.

Sane

0300 304 7000
sane.org.uk
Offers emotional support and information for anyone affected by mental health problems.

Self-injury Support

(formerly BCSW – Bristol Crisis Service for Women)
0808 800 8088
0780 047 2908 (text support)
selfinjurysupport.org.uk
Information and support for women and girls affected by self-harm, trauma and abuse.

UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)

psychotherapy.org.uk
Professional body for psychotherapists and therapeutic counsellors. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.

YoungMinds

0808 802 5544 (parents helpline)
85258 (crisis messenger service, text YM)
youngminds.org.uk
Committed to improving the mental health of babies, children and young people, including support for parents and carers.