In Crisis? You Are Not Alone

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call emergency services or reach out to a crisis line.

Saudi Arabia 920033360

Crisis Hotlines

Saudi Arabia
National Counseling Helpline
920033360
Available 24/7 — Arabic & English
International
Befrienders Worldwide
Find a helpline in your country
United States
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988
24/7 — English & Spanish
United Kingdom
Samaritans
116 123
24/7 — Free to call
Egypt / مصر
Befrienders Cairo
762 0602
Arabic support
Lebanon / لبنان
Embrace Lifeline
1564
24/7 — Arabic & English
Jordan / الأردن
National Mental Health Helpline
110
Arabic support
UAE / الإمارات
Mental Health Helpline (DHA)
800 1111
Arabic & English

Self-Help Strategies

1

Practice Grounding

When overwhelmed, try the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: notice 5 things you see, 4 you touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste.

2

Maintain a Routine

Structure brings stability. Even small routines like a morning walk or a set bedtime can anchor your day and reduce anxiety.

3

Move Your Body

Physical activity releases endorphins. You do not need a gym — a 15-minute walk, gentle stretching, or dancing in your room all count.

4

Write It Down

Journaling helps process emotions. Write freely without judgment — it is for your eyes only and there is no wrong way to do it.

5

Connect With Someone

Isolation deepens distress. Reach out to a friend, family member, or a peer listener. A single conversation can shift your perspective.

6

Limit News and Social Media

Constant exposure to distressing content takes a toll. Set boundaries around screen time and curate what you consume.

7

Practice Self-Compassion

Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend. Healing is not linear, and every small step forward matters.

8

Breathing Exercises

Try box breathing: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4. Repeat until you feel calmer and more centered.

Safe Messaging Guidelines

Do: Listen Without Judgment

Give your full attention. Let them share at their own pace without trying to fix or minimize their experience.

Do: Use Gentle Language

Phrases like "I hear you" and "That sounds really difficult" validate feelings without being dismissive.

Avoid: Providing Quick Fixes

Saying "just think positive" or "others have it worse" can feel dismissive. Focus on being present, not solving.

Avoid: Sharing Without Consent

Never share someone's personal struggles with others without their explicit permission. Trust is sacred.

Do: Know Your Limits

You do not have to be a therapist. It is okay to say "I want to help, but I think talking to a professional would be really beneficial."

Do: Follow Up

A simple "How are you doing today?" days later shows you genuinely care and that they are not forgotten.

Recommended Reading

The Body Keeps the Score

Bessel van der Kolk

A groundbreaking exploration of how trauma reshapes body and mind, and innovative treatments for recovery.

Feeling Good

David D. Burns

A classic guide to cognitive behavioral techniques for overcoming depression and negative thought patterns.

Lost Connections

Johann Hari

An investigation into the real causes of depression and anxiety — and the unexpected solutions.

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

Lori Gottlieb

A therapist's own journey through therapy, offering both humor and profound insight into the human condition.

Helpful Apps & Tools

Headspace

Guided meditation and mindfulness exercises for stress, sleep, and focus.

Woebot

AI-powered cognitive behavioral therapy chatbot available anytime you need support.

Calm

Sleep stories, breathing programs, and relaxation techniques for daily wellness.

Daylio

Micro-diary and mood tracker that helps you identify patterns and build healthier habits.

Need to talk?

Reach out. No judgment, no cost.

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