🏥 Health
Mental Health Hotlines and Resources in the USA
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available 24/7. These free, confidential hotlines connect you with trained counselors who can provide immediate support " — no insurance required.
Immediate Crisis Lines
| Hotline | Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call or text 988 | Suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, any crisis |
| Crisis Text Line | Text HOME to 741741 | Prefer texting over talking |
| SAMHSA Helpline | 1-800-662-4357 | Substance abuse and mental health referrals |
| Veterans Crisis Line | 988 then press 1 | Military veterans and their families |
| Trevor Project (LGBTQ+) | 1-866-488-7386 | LGBTQ+ youth in crisis |
| Trans Lifeline | 877-565-8860 | Transgender people in crisis |
You don't need to be "in crisis" to call: These lines are for anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or just needing someone to talk to. You don't have to be suicidal to reach out. The counselors are trained to help with any emotional struggle.
Specialized Hotlines
Domestic Violence
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) " — 24/7, 170+ languages
- StrongHearts Native Helpline: 1-844-762-8483 " — for Native Americans
Eating Disorders
- NEDA Helpline: 1-800-931-2237 " — call, text, or chat online
- Crisis Text Line: Text "NEDA" to 741741
Child Abuse
- Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 " — 24/7, 170 languages
Sexual Assault
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
- Online chat: rainn.org/get-help
Grief and Loss
- GriefShare: 1-800-395-5755
- Compassionate Friends: 1-877-969-0012 " — for bereaved parents
Free and Low-Cost Mental Health Resources
| Resource | Cost | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| 988 Lifeline Chat | Free | 988lifeline.org |
| 7 Cups (online therapy) | Free chat / $150/mo therapy | 7cups.com |
| NAMI Support Groups | Free | nami.org/support-education |
| BetterHelp (subsidized) | As low as $65/week | betterhelp.com |
| Open Path Collective | $30-$80/session | openpathcollective.org |
| FindTreatment.gov | Varies | findtreatment.gov |
⚠️ Important Notes:
- All crisis hotline calls are free " — they won't show up on your phone bill
- You can remain anonymous if you choose
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 911
- Online chats and texts are available if you can't make a phone call safely
- Many hotlines offer services in Spanish and other languages
How to Help Someone Else
- Listen without judgment " — don't try to "fix" their problems
- Ask directly about suicide " — asking doesn't plant the idea
- Don't leave them alone if you believe they're in danger
- Call 988 together " — offer to sit with them while they talk
- Follow up " — check in the next day, and the day after that
The bottom line: Help is always available. Call or text 988 for any mental health crisis, or text HOME to 741741 to chat with a counselor. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7. You don't have to face mental health challenges alone.