Mental Health Resources
Below you will find mental health resources that I can recommend to look into with various mental health difficulties. Many of them are based in the US but you can also search your country for resources related to these! If you know of any veritable resources outside of the US, please share here.
If you are in crisis:
You can call the NAMI Helpline at (800) 950-6264, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 8 PM (EST). Or you can text "NAMI" to 741741 for 24/7, confidential, free crisis counseling.
Or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a United States-based suicide prevention network of over 160 crisis centers that provides 24/7 service via a toll-free hotline with the number 1-800-273-8255. It is available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress in either English or Spanish.
If you are experiencing domestic violence:
National Domestic Violence Hotline is a free service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call at 800.799.SAFE (7233) or chat online. Your browser data cannot be deleted completely but pressing "ESC" twice on the site will take you back to a Google screen.
Mental Health Professionals:
Brief descriptions of a few different mental health professionals you may encounter in seeking services.
| Psychologist | Psychiatrist |
|---|---|
| A doctor (PhD, PsyD, EdD) in psychology, the study of the mind and behaviors. They are qualified to do counseling and psychotherapy, perform psychological testing, and provide treatment for mental disorders. They cannot write prescriptions (with the exception of a few states). | A medical doctor (MD or DO) specialized in preventing, diagnosing, and treating mental illness. They are licensed to write prescriptions for mental health concerns. |
| Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Clinical Social Worker |
|---|---|
| A mental health professional who has a master’s degree (MA) in psychology, counseling, or a related field. They are qualified to evaluate or treat mental problems by providing counseling or psychotherapy. | Holds at least a master’s degree in social work and training to be able to evaluate and treat mental illnesses. They can provide case management and hospital discharge planning as well as work as advocates for patients and their families. |
The above adapted from WebMD Guide to Psychiatry and Counseling.