If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency department.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US)
Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. Free, confidential, 24/7 support from trained crisis counselors for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or a substance use crisis — or worried about someone else. Spanish is available, and veterans can press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
Other US resources
- Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741
- Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ young people): call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 — free treatment referral and information, 24/7
- NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 or text "helpline" to 62640 (weekdays) — information and support
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Find treatment: FindTreatment.gov
Outside the United States
- Canada: call or text 9-8-8
- UK & Ireland: Samaritans — 116 123
- Australia: Lifeline — 13 11 14
- Elsewhere: find a helpline at findahelpline.com
Finding ongoing care
- Start with your primary care clinician, who can assess, start treatment, and refer you.
- Check your insurance directory or call the number on your card for in-network mental health providers.
- Search directories of licensed therapists, filtering by specialty, location, telehealth and cost.
- Look at community mental health centers, university training clinics and sliding-scale options if cost is a barrier.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) often provide several free, confidential sessions.
Warning signs that need urgent attention
- Talking about wanting to die or being a burden
- Looking for ways to end one's life
- Withdrawing, giving away possessions, or saying goodbye
- Extreme mood swings, severe agitation, or seeing/hearing things others do not
If you notice these signs, reach out — call or text 988 together, and do not leave a person at immediate risk alone.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified health professional about your situation. See our full disclaimer.