24 / 7 · FREE
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988
For emotional distress, mental health crises, or thoughts of suicide. Trained counselors are available around the clock. You can also reach out if you're worried about someone else.
MENTAL HEALTH · WELLBEING · SUPPORT
YOUR MIND
MATTERS.
Some days feel heavier than others. Whether you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, lonely, or facing a crisis, reaching out for support is a meaningful step. You deserve to be heard.
The help button opens hotline numbers on this page. It does not call or notify emergency services.
A PLACE TO START
There is no perfect way to ask for help. A conversation can start with “I'm having a hard time.”
IMMEDIATE SUPPORT · UNITED STATES
Need help right now?
Choose the kind of support you need. These numbers are for people in the United States. You do not need a Positive Talk account to use these resources.
SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE
IMMEDIATE DANGER
Emergency Services
911
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if someone's life is in immediate danger or there is a medical emergency.
If you aren't in immediate danger but need crisis support, 988 is another option.
More ways to connect
Crisis Text Line
741741
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained volunteer crisis counselor about overwhelming feelings or mental health struggles.
Veterans Crisis Line
988 press 1
For U.S. veterans, service members, and people concerned about them. Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255.
The Trevor Project
866-488-7386
Confidential crisis support for LGBTQ+ young people. Call 866-488-7386, or text START to 678678.
Outside the United States? Find a verified helpline in your country ↗. In immediate danger, use your local emergency number.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
It's okay to talk about what you're going through.
Mental health is part of everyday life. Stress and difficult emotions can affect anyone, and different people need different kinds of support.
01
Anxiety & panic
Intense worry or panic can feel frightening. If it happens often, interferes with your life, or feels medically concerning, talk with a qualified healthcare professional.
02
Feeling low or hopeless
Persistent sadness, exhaustion, or a loss of interest deserves attention. You do not have to wait until things become a crisis to ask for support.
03
Grief, stress & burnout
Life changes, loss, and ongoing pressure can take a toll. A trusted person, support group, or mental health professional may help you find your next step.
A MOMENT TO RESET
Try this if you feel overwhelmed.
This simple grounding exercise may help you reconnect with the present moment. It's optional, and it's not a replacement for crisis or medical care.
Need urgent support instead? See hotline options ↑5Things you can see
4Things you can feel
3Things you can hear
2Things you can smell
1Thing you can taste
CONTINUED SUPPORT
Help beyond a crisis.
If you're looking for treatment, support groups, or someone to talk through options with, these organizations can help you get started.
NAMI HelpLine
Emotional support, mental health information, and resources. Monday–Friday, 10 AM–10 PM Eastern. This is not a 24/7 crisis line.
1-800-950-6264SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 referrals and information for mental health and substance use treatment.
1-800-662-4357SHOWING UP FOR SOMEONE
Sometimes the first step is simply listening.
If someone tells you they're struggling, thank them for trusting you. Listen without judging, ask what support would help, and encourage them to reach out to qualified support. If they're in immediate danger, contact emergency services.
REMEMBER THISIt's okay to ask for help.
Needing support is part of being human.
Questions about finding support
Finding help: quick answers.
What is 988?
In the United States, calling or texting 988 connects you with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which supports people facing suicide-related concerns, emotional distress, or mental health crises. You can also visit 988lifeline.org for more information.
When should I call 911 instead?
Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger or needs an urgent emergency response. If the situation is not an immediate emergency but you need crisis support, 988 may be an appropriate starting point in the U.S.
Can I seek help if I am not in immediate crisis?
Yes. You can talk to a trusted person, contact a licensed mental health professional, or explore ongoing support and treatment options. Visit our support contacts above to find reputable starting points.
Does Positive Talk provide therapy or emergency intervention?
No. Positive Talk shares awareness messages and links to independent support organizations. We do not provide clinical diagnosis, therapy, crisis counseling, or emergency dispatch. Using this page or its buttons does not notify emergency services.
Mental health deserves attention. Every day.
This is a public resource page, not a crisis service, counseling service, or emergency-response system. Positive Talk does not monitor requests for help through this page. For immediate support, contact one of the services above.
Helpline information checked October 2026 using official provider resources. Service availability may change. SAMHSA crisis contacts · CDC mental health resources
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