10 October 2025

On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Friday 10 October 2025, the 12 regional branches of 143.ch – Heart2Heart wish to remind the public that in a society where silence, fear of judgment and stigma can hold people back from speaking up, offering a compassionate ear is an act of solidarity. Talking about one’s difficulties is not a weakness – it is a step towards relief and the recognition that one is not alone. At a time when social expectations, professional demands and personal challenges are increasing, many people feel fragile, isolated or overwhelmed. Listening – accessible, free of charge and trustworthy – is an essential human response to these challenges.

A social need made visible

Each year, 143.ch – Heart2Heart records over 195,000 contacts: phone calls, chats and e-mails. These requests concern a wide variety of difficulties, including:

• everyday challenges (daily stress, relationship conflicts, exhaustion),
• isolation or loneliness or suicidal thoughts
• professional overload and social pressure,
• existential fears or crises of meaning,
• academic struggles
• grief
• family or relationship

These issues reflect the many pressures anyone can face, regardless of age or background. Words, when welcomed without judgment, can help lighten the burden.

When listening becomes the first step

It is not always easy to talk about what one feels, especially when there is fear of being judged or misunderstood. Yet starting a conversation can bring change: being heard makes it possible to express oneself, to receive attentive presence, and to clarify one’s emotions. This is exactly what 143.ch – Heart2Heart offers, true to its belief that “Talking helps”

Confiding in someone – sharing worries, pains or thoughts with a caring listener – is the first step towards finding a little breathing space again. It is often the beginning of a path where one can open up and talk about difficulties and challenging times.

A national network, rooted locally

The 12 regional branches of 143.ch – Heart2Heart cover the whole of Switzerland, ensuring continuous anonymous support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This local anchoring makes it possible to better understand the specific realities of each canton or region, while relying on national coordination.

Together, they form a psychosocial support network that goes beyond cantonal boundaries.

Practical Information

• Helpline: 143 (24/7, free of charge)
• English Helpline (Heart2Heart) 0800 143 000 (6pm to 11pm, daily)
• Chat and e-mail: via ch