Support by email
Befriending Email
If calling does not feel right, you can write about what you are going through. You may use an alias or pen name, and we aim to reply within 24 hours.
Emotional support

At a glance
Who it is for
People who cannot call or find it easier to express themselves in writing
Format
Emotional support by email
Availability
We aim to reply within 24 hours; this is not an immediate channel
Language
Chinese or English
Share what you are feeling in writing
Some feelings are difficult to say aloud. Writing can give you more time to gather your thoughts. You can tell us what has been happening, how you feel, or which parts have become hard to carry.
Befriending Email may suit you if…
You cannot or would rather not use the telephone, you do not have enough privacy to speak where you are, or writing feels easier than talking. You may contact us using an alias or pen name.
What happens after I send an email?
A volunteer will read your message and respond to the feelings you have shared. We aim to reply within 24 hours. Befriending Email is not an immediate or emergency channel, so please use the hotline if you need to speak with someone now.
Service details
For: People who cannot call or find writing easier
How: Emotional support by email
Response: We aim to reply within 24 hours; this is not an immediate service
Email: jo@samaritans.org.hk
Is writing easier than talking?
You may use an alias or pen name to share how you feel. Befriending Email is not an immediate or emergency channel.
Last verified: 19 August 2026

Together, we can help
Your donation helps keep our hotline open and our volunteers trained and supported.