If you're in crisis right now, help is one step away.
Not in a week. Right now. Real people answer.
This page is for people who need help right now — not for people researching therapy options. If that's you, the resources below connect you with real people immediately. No waitlist. No insurance required. No intake form. The hotlines on this page are staffed 24/7.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
What it is: The national mental health crisis line. Replaced the old 10-digit suicide prevention number in 2022. Now a 3-digit number anyone can remember.
Who it's for: Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, mental health crisis, or substance use crisis. Not only for people actively suicidal — if you're struggling, call.
How to reach it: Call or text 988. Available 24/7. Available in Spanish. TTY: dial 711 then 988.
What to expect: You'll be connected to a trained crisis counselor. Calls are confidential. The counselor will listen, provide support, and help you figure out next steps. Calls are not automatically reported to police — this is a common fear and it's usually not how it works.
Call or text 988Crisis Text Line
What it is: Text-based crisis support. Useful if you're in a situation where talking isn't possible or safe.
Who it's for: Anyone in crisis. Particularly useful for younger people, those in environments where a phone call isn't private, or people who find texting easier.
How to reach it: Text HOME to 741741. Available 24/7.
What to expect: A trained Crisis Counselor will respond within minutes. The conversation is text-based and confidential.
Text HOME to 741741SAMHSA National Helpline
What it is: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline. Free, confidential, 24/7.
Who it's for: People dealing with mental health or substance use disorders — or both. Also useful for family members supporting someone in crisis.
How to reach it: 1-800-662-4357 (1-800-662-HELP). Free, confidential, English and Spanish. 24/7/365.
What to expect: Treatment referrals, information, and local resource connections.
1-800-662-4357Veterans Crisis Line
What it is: Dedicated crisis support for veterans, service members, and their families.
Who it's for: All veterans and service members, including those who may not be enrolled in VA benefits.
How to reach it: Call 988 then press 1. Text 838255. Chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net.
What to expect: Specially trained responders with military background experience.
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)
What it is: Crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ young people.
Who it's for: LGBTQ+ people under 25 experiencing crisis or suicidal ideation.
How to reach it: TrevorLifeline: 1-866-488-7386. TrevorText: Text START to 678-678. TrevorChat at TheTrevorProject.org.
What to expect: Trained crisis counselors with specific expertise in LGBTQ+ mental health.
1-866-488-7386Trans Lifeline
What it is: Peer support hotline staffed entirely by transgender people.
Who it's for: Transgender people in crisis. Run by trans people, for trans people.
How to reach it: 877-565-8860 (US). Available most hours — check their site for current availability.
What to expect: Peer support from someone who shares your experience.
877-565-8860Not in crisis, but struggling?
If you're not in acute crisis but things feel heavy — that's what online therapy is for. You don't need to be in crisis to deserve support.