Mental Health Resources: Support and Information
Comprehensive mental health resources for US and Canadian residents. Crisis hotlines, counseling services, evidence-based information, and guidance on when and how to seek professional help.
Mental health is as important as physical health. One in five adults experiences mental illness each year, yet many don't seek help due to stigma or lack of resources. This guide provides trusted mental health resources, crisis support information, and guidance on accessing professional help. Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
🆘 If You're in Crisis - Get Immediate Help
United States - 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:
Call or Text: 988
24/7 crisis support for suicide prevention and mental health crises. Also available via online chat at 988lifeline.org
Canada - Crisis Services Canada:
Call: 1-833-456-4566 | Text: 45645
24/7 support in English and French. Visit CrisisServicesCanada.ca
Crisis Text Line (US & Canada):
Text HOME to 741741
Free, 24/7 text-based crisis support
Immediate Danger: Call 911 (US/Canada)
Understanding Mental Health
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) provide evidence-based information on mental health conditions.
Common Mental Health Conditions
Depression
Persistent sadness, loss of interest, changes in sleep/appetite, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness. Affects 7% of adults annually. Highly treatable with therapy and/or medication.
Anxiety Disorders
Excessive worry, panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety. Most common mental health condition (19% of adults). Effective treatments include therapy (CBT) and medication.
Bipolar Disorder
Extreme mood swings between depressive and manic episodes. Requires professional treatment including medication and therapy.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Develops after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety. Specialized trauma therapy is effective.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Treated with specialized therapy (ERP) and medication.
Learn more from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and Government of Canada mental health resources.
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek Help If You Experience:
- • Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness lasting more than 2 weeks
- • Excessive worry or fear interfering with daily life
- • Extreme mood swings or irritability
- • Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy lasting weeks
- • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- • Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed
- • Substance use to cope with emotions
- • Physical symptoms without clear medical cause
- • Thoughts of death or suicide
- • Inability to carry out daily activities
Important: You don't need to be in crisis to seek help. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. If you're unsure whether you need help, consult a mental health professional - they can assess your situation and recommend appropriate support.
Finding Mental Health Services
Types of Mental Health Professionals
- Psychiatrists: Medical doctors who can prescribe medication and provide therapy
- Psychologists: Doctoral-level therapists specializing in psychological testing and therapy
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW): Provide therapy and connect to community resources
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC): Master's-level therapists for various mental health issues
- Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT): Specialize in relationship and family dynamics
Finding Providers in the United States
- SAMHSA National Helpline - 1-800-662-4357 (treatment referral and information)
- SAMHSA Treatment Locator - Find mental health and substance use treatment facilities
- Psychology Today Therapist Directory - Search by location, insurance, specialization
- Your health insurance provider's directory of in-network mental health professionals
- Primary care doctor referrals
- Community mental health centers (often offer sliding-scale fees)
Finding Providers in Canada
- Wellness Together Canada - Free mental health and substance use support
- Your family doctor or primary care provider for referrals
- Provincial/territorial health services (many offer free or subsidized counseling)
- Psychology Today Canada Directory
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) through your workplace
- Community health centers and walk-in mental health clinics
Cost Concerns: Many communities offer low-cost or free mental health services through community mental health centers, university counseling clinics (open to public), support groups, and telehealth options. Don't let cost prevent you from seeking help - ask providers about sliding-scale fees or payment plans.
Specialized Crisis Resources
Substance Use & Addiction
- US: SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (24/7, free, confidential)
- Canada: Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction resources at CCSA.ca
Veterans
- US: Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1) or text 838255
- Canada: Veterans Affairs Crisis Line: 1-800-268-7708 (24/7)
LGBTQ+ Support
- Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
- Trans Lifeline: US 1-877-565-8860 | Canada 1-877-330-6366
Domestic Violence
- US: National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
- Canada: Shelter Safe at ShelterSafe.ca for local resources
Self-Care and Mental Wellness
While professional help is important for mental health conditions, self-care practices support overall mental wellness. The NIMH recommends these evidence-based strategies:
Daily Mental Wellness Practices
- Regular Exercise: 30+ minutes most days reduces depression and anxiety
- Adequate Sleep: 7-9 hours nightly; maintain consistent sleep schedule
- Healthy Eating: Balanced diet supports brain function and mood
- Social Connection: Maintain relationships; reach out to friends and family
- Stress Management: Meditation, deep breathing, mindfulness, yoga
- Limit Alcohol/Substances: Can worsen mental health symptoms
- Set Boundaries: Learn to say no; protect your time and energy
- Engage in Hobbies: Activities you enjoy boost mood and provide purpose
- Get Outdoors: Nature exposure reduces stress and improves mood
Important Note: Self-care practices complement professional treatment but don't replace it. If you're experiencing symptoms of mental illness, consult a mental health professional. Self-care alone is not sufficient treatment for clinical mental health conditions.
Supporting Someone Else
If someone you care about is struggling with mental health:
How to Help
- Listen without judgment: Let them talk without offering unsolicited advice
- Express concern: "I've noticed you seem down lately. I'm worried about you."
- Encourage professional help: Offer to help find resources or accompany them
- Stay connected: Regular check-ins show you care
- Be patient: Recovery takes time; don't rush or dismiss their feelings
- Take care of yourself: Supporting others is draining; maintain your own wellness
What NOT to Say
- ✗ "Just think positive" or "Snap out of it"
- ✗ "Others have it worse"
- ✗ "It's all in your head"
- ✗ "Have you tried yoga/exercise?" (as sole solution)
- ✗ "You don't seem depressed/anxious to me"
Learn more about supporting others from NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
You're Not Alone - Help is Available
Mental health challenges are common and treatable. Whether you're experiencing a crisis, managing ongoing symptoms, or supporting someone else, resources and professional help are available. Taking the first step to reach out is courageous and important. Our AI Wellness Coach can provide general information about mental health and direct you to appropriate professional resources.
🏃Get Mental Wellness Information