Five resources for mental health emergencies

Did you know that mental health emergencies accounted for over 3.8M ambulance dispatches in 2023?¹ In times of mental health crises, it’s crucial to know that help is readily available. Whether you’re experiencing overwhelming anxiety, severe depression, or thoughts of self-harm, reaching out for support can make all the difference. Read on for a guide to some essential resources and professionals ready to assist during these challenging times.

Five essential mental health resources:

1. Crisis hotlines

Crisis hotlines are often the first point of contact during a mental health emergency. And unfortunately, with more than one-third of the Americans living in an area with a shortage of mental health professionals, hotlines may be the only available resource.² Staffed by trained professionals, these crisis services offer immediate support, guidance, and intervention. Some widely recognized hotlines include:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Offering 24/7 free and confidential support for individuals in distress or crisis. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a trained counselor.
• Crisis Text Line: Providing free, 24/7 support via text message. Text “HELLO” to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
• The National Helpline for Mental Health: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a national helpline that is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Call 1-800-662-HELP to be connected to treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Specifically for veterans, this hotline offers confidential support and resources. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, or text 838255 to connect with a trained responder.

2. Emergency services

In life-threatening situations or when immediate medical attention is required, don’t hesitate to call 911. Dispatchers are trained to assess the situation and aid you over the phone, connecting you with emergency medical professionals equipped to assist you and ensure your safe transport to a local hospital or emergency room. At a healthcare facility, staff can assess the situation, provide immediate care, and connect you to psychiatric specialists or crisis intervention services.

Some regions have a crisis response system that works in tandem with 911, allowing you to call 911 or 988 and request a Crisis Intervention Trained officer or specialist to assist you. Many areas also have walk-in services available as an alternative to emergency room care for mental health crisis situations. To find out what resources are available in your area, check this national listing of 988 Crisis Centers, the website for your municipality or the website for your state’s Department of Human Services.

3. Therapists and counselors

Establishing a relationship with a mental health professional can provide ongoing support and guidance. Therapists, counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists are trained to help individuals navigate mental health challenges. Most mental healthcare providers offer emergency appointments, have on-call services for urgent situations, and offer virtual counseling options, ensuring availability for both preventative and emergency care needs.

4. Community mental health centers and mobile crisis teams

Community mental health centers offer a range of mental health services, including crisis intervention, counseling, and psychiatric care. They often provide sliding-scale fees or accept insurance, making mental health support more accessible. Your area may also have mobile crisis teams of mental health professionals who can respond to emergencies outside of traditional clinical settings. These teams can conduct assessments, provide crisis intervention, and connect individuals with appropriate resources. To connect with resources in your area, visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ site FindTreatment.gov or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

5. Support groups

Peer support can be incredibly valuable during mental health crises. Sharing experiences and coping strategies with others who understand can offer comfort and reassurance. Visit your local library or municipal government website for information about support groups for individuals experiencing similar challenges. 

Remember that you are not alone

Seeking help during a mental health emergency is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. You deserve support, and help is available when you need it most.

Reach out to one of the resources mentioned above, confide in a trusted friends or family member, and prioritize your well-being. Review your benefits plans and find out what mental health coverage is available to you. And remember, you can always rely on MASA® to be there to provide medical transport coverage available to you in your plan, so you can focus on your emotional well-being instead of an unexpected ambulance bill.