Crisis and Helpline Resources
Support for a mental health crisis
Call or text 988, the nationwide Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential, 24/7 support for people in distress. For support tailored to different groups of people, see the options described under Call or text 988.
Reaching out to 911 is never an easy decision. However, if a young person’s behavior seems unsafe to themselves or others and beyond the ability of caring adults to manage, calling 911 may be the right option. For more information, see Call 911.
Helplines and resources for teens
Text 439-726 (9AM-12AM ET) for this free, confidential peer-to-peer texting service that provides emotional support to young people in need.
text HOME to 741741 or follow this link to chat with a trained volunteer crisis counselor, who can listen and help you sort through your feelings with the goal of helping you move from a hot moment to a cooler, calmer one. This resource is also available in Spanish.
Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text “Friend” to 62640 to learn about resources for teens and young adults with various identities (such as Latinx, Native American, or LGBTQ+), needs (such as emotional or relationship support; responding to bullying), challenges (such as intellectual disabilities, depression, eating disorders), and questions on many different topics.
Read their wide-ranging Opens in a new tabdirectory of resources for teens and young adults.
Additional Resources
Mental Health A-Z
Understanding mental health terms in simple, straightforward language.
View Glossary