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In immediate danger? Call 999 · Urgent help

Urgent help

Addiction & Us is not an emergency service. We don't monitor messages in real time and we can't respond to a crisis. If you or someone else needs help now, please contact one of the services below.

If someone may have overdosed

  • Call 999 straight away and follow the call handler's instructions.
  • If they are unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position.
  • Stay with them if it is safe to do so.
  • Tell paramedics anything you know about what they have taken.

If you feel unsafe at home

If you are in danger, call 999. If you can't speak, call 999 and then press 55 when prompted on a mobile. This is the Silent Solution, which lets the police know it's a genuine emergency. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available 24 hours a day.

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More support available now

NHS 111

Details checked Oct 2026

Urgent medical help or advice when it isn't a life-threatening emergency. In Scotland, 111 connects to NHS 24; in Wales, to NHS 111 Wales.

Who they help:
Anyone
Type of support:
Emergency, Helpline
Coverage:
UK-wide
Availability:
24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Shout

Details checked Oct 2026

A free, confidential text support service for anyone in the UK who is struggling to cope.

Who they help:
Anyone
Type of support:
Text or chat
Coverage:
UK-wide
Availability:
24 hours a day, 7 days a week

National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Refuge)

Details checked Oct 2026

Free, confidential support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, and for people worried about someone else.

Who they help:
Anyone, Partners
Type of support:
Helpline, Text or chat
Coverage:
England
Availability:
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Live chat also available via the website.

For non-urgent support, see our support directory.