Mental health/counselling advice please?

[Carthage]

Can anyone advise me what to do on two related subjects?

Firstly, and most importantly a friend has just called me to ask if they can come and stay as they're feeling suicidal. I'm not sure I'm equipped to deal with this, but felt obliged to agree to them staying. What should I do to help them?

Secondly, I've been thinking of seeking counselling for a while for things that have happened in my personal life, and patterns I see replaying themselves. How would I go about this?

Thanks.

[Carthage]

Cupramax said:

Sounds like both you and your friend, especially your friend if suicidal, need to speak to a doctor. It may be hard but that's what they are there for.

Will my local GP see my friend if they are resident in another area and not registered here?

[Carthage]

Ok, so I'm a little scared by SplatSpeed's suggestion that we'd both be sectioned for two weeks... I'm not mentally ill.

Do I need to be mentally ill to see a counsellor? I only wanted to sort out some behavioural patterns I have as a consequence of some relationships.

Good to know my GP will see my friend if they're in crisis, or A & E might help, too.

[Carthage]

Goldblum - I agree but under the circumstances feel I have no choice. I could do with some help for me, before I'm much use to anyone else, I think.

UndertheRadar - thanks for the advice - I won't do any DIY psychiatry but instead will try to help them access appropriate medical help if needed.

I'm kind of worried about my friend driving here in their current emotional and physical state, too.

Edited by Carthage on Wednesday 19th September 17:37