Hot Lines

• Crisis/Suicide Prevention: 1-800-273-8255
• The LGBTQ+ Trevor Lifeline: 866-488-7386
• NAMI Helpline: 800-950-NAMI (6264)
  • Staffed M-F, 10 AM - 6 PM EST
• National Youth Crisis Hotlines: (800) 442-HOPE (4673)
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
  • SAMHSA: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services: 1-800-662-4357

Text Lines

• Crisis/Suicide Prevention: "CARE" to 839863
• Crisis/Suicide Prevention: "MATTERS" to 741741
• Crisis Counselor: "HOME" to 741741 )
• NAMI Text Line: "NAMI" to 741741
  • Staffed M-F, 10 AM - 6 PM EST

Therapy

There are a lot of different types of therapy. It is important to find the right one for you. Here are just some suggestions:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Exposure Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Find Therapist Near You

Websites

• YOURLIFEYOURVOICE
• Find your local NAMI
• NAMI: Helping a Friend
• NAMI Student Guide to Mental Health
• Crisis Text line
• Onoursleeves

How to Help as a Friend: ADAA, NAMI, & Professional Recommendations

• Ask them directly, "Are you considering killing yourself?" This may seem blunt. However, according to ADAA, studies show that this question does not increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts, and it's an important foundation for the next steps.
• Make safety a priority. If they answer positively to step one, ask them if they have a plan. While it may not be easy, removing lethal objects and items in the dorm or home, such as guns, can also make a big difference.
• Be there for them. Sometimes the most you can do for someone is simply to be there for them when they need you. Listen to what they have to say. Acknowledge and talk to them about the realities of suicide. According to ADAA, this can reduce suicidal thoughts.
• Give them the tools to help themselves. Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's number — (800) 273-8255 — in your phone. If possible, also save this number in your friend's phone.
• Remain in contact. Staying in contact makes a big difference and can potentially save the life of an at-risk person.
• Get someone who can help involved! A parent, the police, call the crisis line together with an adult, the school counselor - someone who can actually help that person needs to know and be a part of that safety step and accountability
• Help friends build a positive, social support network by checking in on them regularly, include then in your plans, and avoid judgemental or dismissive language.