Befrienders Worldwide

If you are in danger right now

If you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, or you are not safe, contact local emergency services or a crisis line now. Sefism is not a medical or crisis service.

What it is

Befrienders Worldwide describes itself as the leading global network of emotional support centres. Its member centres offer a confidential, non-judgmental space for people experiencing despair or suicidal distress. The centres are run mostly by trained volunteers, and the idea behind "befriending" is simple: you are listened to as a person, not treated as a case. The network says it works through more than 90 help centres in 48 countries and supports people in 94 languages.

What you get

• A centre near you. The Find Support Now page lists member centres by country, with phone numbers, opening hours and, where offered, email or chat.
• Listening, not advice. Volunteers do not tell you what to do; they help you talk it through.
• Confidentiality. What you say stays with the centre, within each centre's own policy.

Each centre sets its own hours and contact methods. Check the site before you call, numbers change.

Who it suits

Anyone who is struggling, including people who feel they have no one to talk to, students abroad, and people who would rather speak to a stranger than to family. It is also useful if you are supporting a friend and need to know where to send them.

How to use it well

• Find your local centre now and save the number, along with one 24/7 option.
• If your country has no member centre, use Find A Helpline, which covers more countries.
• Say what you need at the start, for example "I just need to talk" or "I am not safe".

Pair it with on Sefism

• Stage 1 of the Looking after your mental health roadmap covers crisis help and how to support a friend.
• In Pakistan see Umang; in India, Tele-MANAS.
• Building your support system covers loneliness and building people you can lean on.
• For anything that is not urgent, you can also ask Tauseef a question.

Best for: finding a volunteer emotional support centre near you, in your language.