North Ayrshire Council has teamed up with Shout to provide free mental health support via text. This service started during Suicide Prevention Week, with assistance from the Health and Social Care Partnership and the Council’s Education Service.
It’s open to everyone in North Ayrshire, regardless of age, and you can access it any time. Just text SUPPORTNA to 85258 (or YM if you’re under 25, or THEMIX if you’re under 19). You’ll connect instantly with a trained Shout Volunteer who can listen and help.
You can text about issues such as:
– Anxiety or stress
– Feeling low or depressed
– Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
– Panic attacks
– Loneliness or isolation
– Bullying or abuse
Shout Advisors are available 24/7 when things get tough. Each conversation is completely free and confidential. Everything you say remains private—it won’t appear on your phone bill, and you don’t need to download an app, register, or create a password.
All chats are anonymous and managed by a Clinical Supervisor. If someone is at real risk of harm, the conversation will continue until that person is safe. The service not only provides immediate support but also helps you find positive steps for the future, so you can manage challenges better.
Even if you are outside North Ayrshire—like visiting friends or family in another part of the UK—you can still text anytime, day or night, as long as you use the keyword SUPPORTNA.
This is one way the council ensures that people have access to free services supporting their mental health, which is a key part of their Wellbeing Council Plan.
The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Shout Volunteers can also help direct you to other support, such as your GP or a mental health nurse, if you need help in the long term. If you ever feel suicidal or in immediate danger, always call 999 right away.
By Karis Harwood
