Crisis Lines and Urgent Help

Where to go when something is happening right now: the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text and chat lines, and the services built for particular groups such as LGBTQ+ young people and veterans. None of these is a directory listing in the ordinary sense and all of them are free. The entries record how to reach each one, what hours it runs, whether it answers by phone, text or chat, who staffs it, and what it says about when emergency services get involved.

  1. 1

    National nonprofit with 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900), online tools and caregiver support groups for families affected by Alzheimer's and dementia across all 50 US states.

  2. 2

    National nonprofit offering crisis referral, suicide-loss support groups, treatment resources, and community advocacy for suicide prevention.

  3. 3

    Free self-guided DBT skills training with modules, worksheets, and therapy provider search since 2001.

  4. 4

    Free 24/7 crisis support by call, text, or chat across the US with Spanish-language and Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing access.

  5. 5

    National nonprofit mobilizing youth and young adults through college and K-12 chapters, leadership programs, and community mental-health advocacy.

  6. 6

    Free, 24/7 text-based crisis support for anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide.

  7. 7

    AI mental health app with five companions using Socratic questioning, cognitive reframing, and behavioral activation, with a free trial.

  8. 8

    Free men's mental health resource with 20-point head inspection, provider directory, and crisis support links.

  9. 9

    Free 24/7 national hotline (866-903-3787) connecting callers to mental health resources and local support.

  10. 10

    Free 24/7 Muslim-community helpline and online therapy with licensed providers across the US.

  11. 11

    Free 24/7 confidential support service for the military community affected by sexual assault, available by phone, chat, app and peer support.

  12. 12

    Free 24-hour live chat crisis support for teens and young adults with Hope Coaches, plus suicide resources and email mentors.

  13. 13

    National nonprofit offering free peer wellness groups, a therapy referral directory, and crisis hotline listings for the Asian American community.

  14. 14

    Therapy directory and community programs for Black women, plus crisis and peer support resources.

  15. 15

    Peer-run hotline and microgrants nonprofit offering crisis support by phone or text and financial assistance for trans people nationwide.

  16. 16

    Free 24/7 crisis hotline and chat for anyone affected by child abuse, staffed by trained counselors with access to 10,000 resources.

  17. 17

    24/7 text-based mental health support for schools, employers, and communities, with licensed counselors available instantly, not direct to consumers.

  18. 18

    Free self-guided app for complex trauma with clinically-validated grounding techniques, tracking, and crisis support always free.

  19. 19

    A workplace mental health platform combining therapy, coaching, manager training, crisis response, and wellness content for employers globally.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay to use these crisis services?

No. Most of the services listed here are free, including 24/7 hotlines, text lines, and community-specific helplines. Some entries, like the AI mental health app, may offer a free trial before requiring payment.

Is there help available if I prefer texting over calling?

Yes. Several options provide 24/7 crisis support via text or live chat. This is a good choice if you feel more comfortable communicating through typing rather than speaking on the phone.

Are there resources specifically for certain communities or demographics?

Yes. Our directory includes specialized support for military members, the Muslim community, men, and teens. There are also dedicated resources for caregivers of those with Alzheimer's or dementia.

Can I get help for a crisis right now, or do I need to schedule an appointment?

Many of these services offer 24/7 immediate support through phone calls, texts, or chats. Other resources provide self-guided tools and skill-building modules that you can use at any time without an appointment.