Support & Resources
If you’re affected by the themes of The Seagull and need someone to talk to, help is available. You can reach out to Samaritans any time, 24/7, by calling 116 123 for free.
If you prefer texting, the UK’s SHOUT service offers free, confidential support around the clock. Simply text SHOUT to 85258.
Below are resources and information for support, whether you are dealing with similar struggles or would like to understand more about the themes and topics in The Seagull.
Mental health challenges can impact anyone and may include feelings of stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm. Support is available for those struggling to cope or seeking to understand their feelings better:
Mind: Offers support and resources for mental health, including an information line. Website: mind.org.uk InfoLine: 0300 123 3393
Rethink Mental Illness: Provides practical advice and support for individuals and families. Website: rethink.org Advice Line: 0808 801 0525 Depression can manifest as persistent sadness, loss of interest, and difficulty coping with daily life. Whether mild or severe, help is available:
Samaritans: A 24/7 listening service for anyone feeling low or overwhelmed. Freephone: 116 123 (UK and Ireland) Website: samaritans.org
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): A helpline and webchat service specifically focused on helping those feeling down. Helpline: 0800 58 58 58 (5 PM – midnight daily) Website: thecalmzone.net
The play’s themes touch on existential questions about purpose, fulfilment, and connection, which can lead to feelings of isolation and despair. For support with loneliness or to find meaning during difficult times:
The Silver Line: A free helpline providing support for older people feeling lonely or isolated. Freephone: 0800 4 70 80 90 Website: thesilverline.org.uk
Action for Happiness: Offers resources and activities to build resilience, hope, and connection. Website: actionforhappiness.org The play includes moments addressing suicide and suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is always available:
Samaritans: A free, confidential text service offering crisis support. Call 116 123 for free.
Papyrus UK: Focused on suicide prevention for young people under 35. HOPELINEUK: 0800 068 4141 / Text: 07860 039967 (9 AM – midnight daily) Website: papyrus-uk.org
NHS 111 (Option 2): For urgent mental health help in the UK.
The themes of loss and unfulfilled dreams are central to The Seagull. For support with grief or navigating life’s setbacks:
Cruse Bereavement Support: Support for those coping with loss and grief. Helpline: 0808 808 1677 Website: cruse.org.uk
Child Bereavement UK: a charity providing guidance and support to families dealing with the loss of a child or supporting a bereaved child. www.childbereavementuk.org Helpline: 0800 02 888 40 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm). Live chat and email support available via their website.
Counselling Directory: Connects you to therapists who specialise in personal struggles and life transitions. Website: counselling-directory.org.uk
The company of performers and off stage departments have also been offered and provided with wellbeing support throughout rehearsals and the duration of the run.
Supportive strategies
Watching a performance like The Seagull, which explores deep emotional themes, can bring up a wide range of feelings. Here are some general self-care strategies to support your well-being when engaging with intense or thought-provoking content:
1. Practice Grounding Techniques
If the material becomes overwhelming, take a moment to ground yourself. Focus on your breath, the sensations around you, or a comforting object to help calm your mind and stay present.
2. Stay Connected
If you find yourself struggling with emotions that arise, consider reaching out to someone you trust. Talking about your feelings can provide relief and perspective.
3. Engage in Self-Soothing Activities
Engage in activities that help you relax and reset after experiencing intense emotions. This could include taking a walk, listening to calming music, or practicing mindfulness exercises.
4. Reflect and Process
Taking time to reflect on how the themes resonated with you can be a powerful way to process the experience. Writing down your thoughts or discussing them with others can help integrate the emotional experience in a healthy way.
This page provides information, not advice. The content is provided for general information only. It is not intended to, and does not mount to advice which you should rely on but should provide some extra context for you to make an individual informed decision about the suitability of the show for you and how to manage the content of it. If you have further questions please get in touch with someone from the venue. This page will be reviewed regularly to ensure it is as accurate as possible. However, for your own comfort and enjoyment please be aware that all content listed within this document, whilst remaining the same in terms of intensity, may be adjusted slightly in terms of timing and delivery.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. We believe The Seagull is a truly special piece of theatre and look forward to sharing it with you
This information has been prepared by Applause for thought CIC
