Helplines in Italy
In an emergency, call 112, or 118 for an ambulance. If you need someone to talk to, Telefono Amico Italia answers on 02 2327 2327 at any hour, and also on WhatsApp (324 011 7252) every evening from 6pm to 9pm. Samaritans Onlus (06 77208977) listens daily from 1pm to 10pm, especially to people who are thinking about suicide. Both calls cost your normal tariff.
None of the services listed here states that it offers English, so expect to speak Italian. If that isn't possible for you, call anyway: emergency services usually find a way to help, and some volunteers may be able to manage a few words. Writing on WhatsApp can also be easier than speaking in a second language.
Women experiencing violence or stalking can call 1522, the public helpline, free and open 24/7, including from mobiles; it also has a chat. Specialist operators answer, and they can connect you to anti-violence centres. Shelter addresses are kept confidential for your safety, and the helpline is the way to arrange a place. LGBT+ people facing discrimination, violence or family difficulties can call the Gay Help Line free on 800 713 713. For worries about drugs or alcohol, the Istituto Superiore di Sanità runs free lines on 800 186070 and 800 632000 on weekdays.
On a foreign SIM, dial the numbers as shown. 112 works on any phone in the EU. Each number was checked at its official source, with the date shown beside it.
Emotional support
Suicide prevention
Domestic violence
LGBTQ+
Gay Help Line
National freephone and chat helpline for LGBT+ people facing discrimination, violence or family difficulties.
Checked 2026-10-19 · source
Alcohol and drugs
Telefono Verde Droga (ISS)
Istituto Superiore di Sanità line on illegal drugs, offering listening, information and referral; also reached via the national addictions number 800 94 07 89.
- Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 7:30pm
- Languages: Italian
- Cost: free
- Website
Checked 2026-10-19 · source
Questions about getting help in Italy
What is the emergency number in Italy?
In Italy, call 112 and 118 in an emergency. If someone's life is at risk, don't wait: call straight away. Emergency calls are free.
Is there a free mental health helpline in Italy?
Yes. Telefono Amico Italia (02 2327 2327) and Samaritans Onlus (06 77208977). Details, opening hours and the official source for each number are listed on this page.
Can I get help in English in Italy?
The services listed here mainly work in the local language, and their official pages don't say they offer English. Emergency services usually find a way to help, and many volunteers speak some English, so it is still worth calling.
Where can women experiencing violence get help in Italy?
Contact 1522 Help Line Violenza e Stalking (1522). Shelter addresses are kept confidential for safety, so the helpline is the way in. In immediate danger, call 112.
Numbers are checked against each service's own website on the date shown. Services change, so if a number doesn't work please tell me: hello@michellefernando.com.