Mental Health Resources

If you are in the United States and experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts, help is available 24/7: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org Support is confidential and free—for people who are struggling and for those supporting someone else. If you are outside the United States, local emergency services or regional crisis lines can help you find support in your area. If someone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.

There isn’t one right way to start getting help. What matters most is finding care that feels accessible and appropriate for you. Some common places people begin include: • A licensed therapist or counselor • A primary care provider who can offer referrals • A psychiatrist or mental health clinic • School, college, or workplace counseling services If cost or access feels like a barrier, community clinics, nonprofit organizations, and telehealth providers may offer sliding-scale or lower-cost options. Many people start by asking a trusted healthcare provider or someone they know for a recommendation.

If someone you care about is having a hard time, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to say or do. You don’t need to have the right answers to be helpful. Often, support looks like: • Listening without trying to fix or explain things away • Taking concerns seriously, even when you don’t fully understand • Encouraging professional help when it feels appropriate • Staying connected and checking in over time Being present matters more than saying the perfect thing.

Mental health struggles are common and deeply human. Depression, anxiety, and emotional distress don’t always look the way people expect, and they rarely have a single cause. Learning more about mental health can help: • Reduce stigma and shame • Make conversations feel less intimidating • Help people recognize when support might be needed • Encourage earlier care and connection Education doesn’t replace professional support, but it can make reaching out feel less overwhelming.

The organizations below offer education, support, and crisis services and are widely used across healthcare, education, and community settings: • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Crisis support, prevention, and resources • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Education, support groups, and advocacy • Mental Health America – Screenings and educational tools • Crisis Text Line – Text-based support (text HOME to 741741)