Understanding Mental Health and Finding Support

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available right now. Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat at 988lifeline.org. It is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 911 in an emergency.

Mental health is part of overall health. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Just like physical health, mental health can change over time, and anyone can go through hard periods.

Mental health is common and treatable

Many people experience mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, at some point in their lives. These are real health conditions, not personal weaknesses. Many people find that treatment and support help them feel better.

Signs it may be time to reach out

Everyone has bad days. But it may be time to talk with someone if you notice changes like these that last for a while or get in the way of daily life:

• Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or worried most of the time
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Big changes in sleep or appetite
• Having trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Pulling away from family, friends, or activities
• Feeling very irritable or angry
• Using alcohol or drugs to cope
• Having thoughts of hurting yourself or others

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out now. Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Where to find support

Your primary care provider

A primary care clinic is often a good place to start. You can say, "I've been feeling down lately and want to talk about it." Your healthcare professional can talk with you about options and may refer you to a mental health professional.

Mental health professionals

Counselors, therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and psychiatric nurse practitioners all provide mental health care. They have different training and roles. You can ask any of them about their approach.

Community health centers

Many community health centers offer behavioral health services, often on a sliding fee scale based on income. You can search HRSA's Find a Health Center tool.

Telehealth

Mental health care is one area where telehealth is often used. Video or phone visits may make it easier to get care if the nearest provider is far away. They may also offer more privacy than being seen at a local office, which some people in small communities prefer.

Finding treatment

SAMHSA's FindTreatment.gov lets you search for mental health and substance use treatment by location.

Your insurance

If you have insurance, call the number on your card and ask about mental health benefits and in-network providers.

Taking care of your mental health day to day

These habits can support well-being. They do not replace professional care when it is needed.

• Stay connected with people you trust.
• Try to keep a regular sleep routine.
• Move your body in ways you enjoy.
• Spend time outdoors when you can.
• Limit alcohol and avoid drugs.
• Notice what helps you feel calmer, and make time for it.

Supporting someone else

If you are worried about someone:

• Reach out and ask how they are doing. Listen without judging.
• Let them know they are not alone and that help is available.
• Encourage them to talk with a healthcare professional.
• If you think they may be thinking about suicide, it is okay to ask directly. Asking does not put the idea in their head. Call or text 988 for guidance.
• If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Privacy

In small communities, some people worry that others will find out they are getting help. Healthcare professionals are required to protect your health information. You can ask any provider how they protect your privacy.

When to talk with a healthcare professional

Reach out to a healthcare professional if you have noticed changes in your mood, thinking, or behavior that last for a while or make daily life harder. You do not need to wait until things feel unbearable.

In a crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Call 911 in an emergency.

This page is for general education and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.