Need help now?
If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or 999 now. Samaritans (116 123, Ireland and the UK) also support people worried about someone else.
How do I know someone is struggling?
You might notice they've gone quiet, cancel plans, seem tired or irritable, drink more, or stop doing things they used to enjoy. Sometimes they'll say they feel like a burden. Take that seriously.
How do I start the conversation?
- Pick a calm, private moment. Walking side by side often feels easier than face to face.
- Be simple and direct: "You've seemed down lately. How are you really doing?"
- Listen more than you talk. You don't have to fix anything.
- Avoid "cheer up" or "others have it worse". Try "That sounds really hard."
Is it OK to ask about suicide?
Yes. Asking directly doesn't put the idea in someone's head. It gives them permission to be honest. If they say yes, stay with them and call 112, 999 or Samaritans on 116 123.
How can I help them get support?
- Encourage them to speak to a Doctor, and offer to help book the appointment. If your employer provides ViscaCare Enterprise, you can book an Online Doctor appointment from 8am–10pm, 7 days a week, right from the app — by phone or video, so they can talk from home.
- Share helpline numbers so they have them when they need them.
- Keep checking in. A short message every few days shows you haven't forgotten.
What about me?
Supporting someone can be draining. Keep up your own routines and talk to someone you trust. If your employer provides ViscaCare Enterprise, your Employee Assistance support is there for you too — supporting someone is a good enough reason to use it. You can also book your own Online Doctor appointment in the app if the weight of it starts to show.
Where can I get support?
- Ireland: Samaritans 116 123 · Pieta 1800 247 247 · Text HELLO to 50808
- UK: Samaritans 116 123 · Text SHOUT to 85258 · NHS 111 (England)
More guides: ViscaCare Guides
Common questions
How do I know someone is struggling?
You might notice they've gone quiet, cancel plans, seem tired or irritable, drink more, or stop doing things they used to enjoy. Sometimes they'll say they feel like a burden. Take that seriously.
How do I start the conversation?
Pick a calm, private moment. Walking side by side often feels easier than face to face. Be simple and direct: "You've seemed down lately. How are you really doing?" Listen more than you talk. You don't have to fix anything. Avoid "cheer up" or "others have it worse". Try "That sounds really hard."
Is it OK to ask about suicide?
Yes. Asking directly doesn't put the idea in someone's head. It gives them permission to be honest. If they say yes, stay with them and call 112, 999 or Samaritans on 116 123.
How can I help them get support?
Encourage them to speak to a Doctor, and offer to help book the appointment. If your employer provides ViscaCare Enterprise, you can book an Online Doctor appointment from 8am–10pm, 7 days a week, right from the app — by phone or video, so they can talk from home. Share helpline numbers so they have them when they need them. Keep checking in. A short message every few days shows you haven't forgotten.
What about me?
Supporting someone can be draining. Keep up your own routines and talk to someone you trust. If your employer provides ViscaCare Enterprise, your Employee Assistance support is there for you too — supporting someone is a good enough reason to use it. You can also book your own Online Doctor appointment in the app if the weight of it starts to show.
Where can I get support?
Ireland: Samaritans 116 123 · Pieta 1800 247 247 · Text HELLO to 50808 UK: Samaritans 116 123 · Text SHOUT to 85258 · NHS 111 (England)
Where these figures come from
Charges and thresholds change. We check these figures regularly, but always confirm the current rate with the official source before you rely on it. This page explains entitlements, costs and process — it is not medical advice.
Speak to a Doctor
Book a phone or video Online Doctor appointment from 8am–10pm, 7 days a week. Mia can translate what you tell her into English and add a summary for the Doctor.