When you need urgent support in a crisis, the internet can help put you in touch with the right people to gain the right advice.

Sometimes it's hard to seek help on a sensitive subject, but the net can make it easier by helping you explore the options in safety and anonymity.

If you want to overcome an addiction, for example, it might help to read stories on the internet from others in similar situations, and find numbers of local confidential support groups.

Finding a Counsellor

A good place to find a counsellor in your local area is the Counselling Directory. This website lists counsellors who can help with a wide range of issues including addiction, depression, debt and relationships.

The Samaritans by e-mail

The best-known emotional support group is the Samaritans, and they now have a valuable web and e-mail service as new ways of contacting them 24-hours a day alongside the famous telephone support line (08457 90 90 90).

The Samaritans provide confidential support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress, worry, confusion or despair, including those which may lead to suicide, although you don't have to be suicidal to contact them.

Their support e-mail address is jo@samaritans.org and their trained volunteers answer over 1,750 e-mails a week.

They suggest that if people contacting them are worried about protecting their anonymity they should send e-mail from a webmail account without using a real name. All e-mail is deleted after 30 days, or sooner if requested.

Of course if you would rather talk to someone, you can still use the telephone service, which is also confidential. The website has a map and a list with details of your local branch of the Samaritans too, where you can drop in for a cup of tea and a chat.

Another online general support service with links to the Samaritans is Befrienders International, whose site features a comprehensive directory of emotional first aid helplines for anyone feeling low, depressed, suicidal or worried about a friend/relative.