10 Mental Health Crisis Resources Everyone Should Know.
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By Gillian Rodriguez, MA, LPC
If you’ve ever been in a mental health crisis — or loved someone who has — you know how disorienting, terrifying, and lonely it can feel. In those moments, even knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. As a therapist, one of the most important things I try to communicate to people is this:
You don’t have to navigate a crisis alone.
There are resources — real, compassionate, effective resources — ready to help. Some are available 24/7. Some specialize in trauma, suicide prevention, identity-based support, or specific age groups. All of them exist for one reason: to keep people safe and supported when everything feels like too much.
Here are 10 of the most trusted mental health crisis support organizations I often recommend — for clients, for families, and for anyone who might one day need a lifeline.
1. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
📞 Dial 988 | 💻 988lifeline.org
This is the new, nationwide three-digit number that connects you to trained crisis counselors 24/7 — whether you’re having suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or need help supporting someone else. Text or call. It's free, confidential, and immediate.
Best for: Anyone in emotional crisis, anywhere in the U.S.
2. The Trevor Project
📞 1-866-488-7386 | 📱 Text “START” to 678-678 | 💻 thetrevorproject.org
The Trevor Project is the leading crisis support resource for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. Their trained counselors offer affirming, identity-safe spaces — with phone, text, and chat options 24/7.
Best for: LGBTQ+ youth ages 13–24 who are in crisis or need someone to talk to.
3. Crisis Text Line
📱 Text HOME to 741741 | 💻 crisistextline.org
This service connects you with a trained crisis counselor via text — anytime, anywhere. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, suicidal, or just need to vent in the middle of the night, they’re there.
Best for: Anyone in crisis who prefers to text instead of call.
4. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine
📞 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) | 💬 Text “HELPLINE” to 62640 | 💻 nami.org/help
NAMI provides free support, education, and referrals. While it’s not a crisis line, the HelpLine is great for connecting to local mental health services or navigating a loved one’s mental health journey.
Best for: Non-emergency support and mental health information.
5. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
💻 afsp.org
AFSP isn’t a hotline, but it’s a deeply valuable resource. They offer suicide prevention education, support for survivors of suicide loss, and ways to get involved in awareness campaigns.
Best for: Suicide loss survivors, prevention advocates, and anyone seeking education or community.
6. SAMHSA’s National Helpline
📞 1-800-662-HELP (4357) | 💻 samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers free, confidential help for individuals and families facing mental health and substance use issues. Available 24/7, in English and Spanish.
Best for: Finding mental health or addiction treatment services.
7. First Responder Support Network (FRSN)
💻 frsn.org
The First Responder Support Network provides specialized crisis and trauma support for police officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, and their families. Their programs, including the West Coast Post-trauma Retreat, are designed by and for first responders.
Best for: First responders and their families dealing with stress, trauma, or crisis.
8. Veterans Crisis Line
📞 Dial 988 then Press 1 | 💻 veteranscrisisline.net
This is a specialized branch of the 988 Lifeline that supports veterans and service members. You can also text 838255 or chat online with responders trained in military culture and crisis support.
Best for: Veterans, service members, and their loved ones.
9. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
📞 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) | 💻 rainn.org
RAINN runs the National Sexual Assault Hotline and offers support for anyone affected by sexual violence. Services include crisis counseling, referrals, and local advocacy resources.
Best for: Survivors of sexual violence and those supporting them.
10. The Steve Fund
📱 Text “STEVE” to 741741 | 💻 stevefund.org
The Steve Fund is dedicated to supporting the mental health of young people of color. Through partnerships with Crisis Text Line and other orgs, they offer culturally responsive care and educational programs.
Best for: BIPOC youth and college students navigating mental health stressors.
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of suicide, overwhelming anxiety, trauma, or simply a feeling that things aren’t okay — help is out there. Right now. Connect with us at Trellis, Magnolia Psychiatry, or a provider of your choice.
As a therapist, I always say this: crisis doesn't have to be the end of the story. It can be the place where healing begins. Don’t wait for it to get worse. Reach out. You are worthy of support, just as you are.
