Mental health crises require accessible immediate resources. Mental health crisis resources have expanded with 988 launch and growing crisis services. Know these before crisis arises.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Call or text 988
- 24/7 free service
- Available throughout US
- For suicidal thoughts and mental health crises
- Counselors trained in crisis support
- Spanish line available
Crisis Text Line
- Text HOME to 741741
- 24/7 free
- Crisis counselors
- Anonymous
- Multiple specialty lines (veterans, LGBTQ+, etc.)
Veterans Crisis Line
- 988 then press 1, or text 838255
- Or call 1-800-273-8255 press 1
- Specialized veterans support
Mobile Crisis Teams
Many areas have mobile teams that come to you:
- Mental health professionals
- Alternative to police response
- Available through 988 in many areas
- Can de-escalate in home environment
Crisis stabilization units
- Short-term (less than 24 hours typically)
- Alternative to ER
- Calm environment for stabilization
- Connect to ongoing care
Emergency rooms
Always option:
- Available 24/7
- Can hospitalize if needed
- Less ideal but reliable
- Can request specific help (mental health crisis)
Specialty crisis lines
- The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- RAINN (sexual assault): 1-800-656-4673
- SAMHSA helpline: 1-800-662-4357
- NAMI helpline: 1-800-950-6264
What constitutes a crisis
- Suicidal thoughts with plan or intent
- Active self-harm
- Homicidal thoughts
- Severe agitation or panic
- Psychotic symptoms
- Severe substance withdrawal
- Inability to function
If someone else is in crisis
- Stay with them if safe
- Call 988 with them
- ER for immediate safety concern
- Don’t leave alone if active suicidality
- Limit access to means (firearms, medications)
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m not in immediate crisis?
988 still appropriate. Designed for various levels of mental health concerns.
Will calling 988 result in police involvement?
Generally only if active danger. Most calls handled without that.
Are crisis services free?
988 and Crisis Text Line free. Hospital services typically billed.
Can I text 988?
Yes, both call and text supported.
What about for kids/teens?
988 serves all ages. Specialized lines for youth available.
The bottom line on crisis resources
Multiple options available 24/7. Know them before crisis. Don’t hesitate to use. Mental health emergencies deserve emergency response.