A helpful list of mental health resources to remind you there’s always hope

Though millions of people experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions on a daily basis, a strong stigma still associated with mental illness often keeps people silent and discourages them from seeking help.

If you or someone in your life is struggling with mental health issues, know you're not alone, and that help, support, and treatment methods are available.

Here's a list of organizations and hotlines that offer support, provide additional informational, and connect you with other impactful professionals and resources.

Emergency Medical Services

If time-sensitive or potentially life-threatening emergencies arise, consider calling 911 and seeking professional medical care.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free, confidential service that connects anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress with local crisis centers across the United States.

The hotline offers 24/7 support: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

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You can also find an international list of suicide hotlines here.

Crisis Text Line

If you're looking for someone to talk with, you can also text Crisis Text Line at 741-741. The mobile service offers 24/7 support from trained crisis counselors in the United States at no cost.

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LGBTQ support

The Trevor Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping LGBTQ youth by providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention methods. Trained counselors at the organization can be reached 24/7 through an online chat, by texting "Trevor" to 1-202-304-1200 Monday through Friday from 3pm–10pm EST, or by calling the TrevorLifeline any time at 866-488-7386.

The organization also offers TrevorSpace — a safe online space for members of the youth LGBTQ community to interact with one another, build meaningful relationships, and offer support.

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Trans Lifeline is another option for transgender people seeking help in time of emotional crisis. Currently, the hotline is staffed by trans volunteers 18 hours a day, every day of the week. United States residents can call (877) 565-8860, and people in Canada can call (877) 330-6366.

National Sexual Assault Hotline

Survivors of sexual harassment and assault can reach out to the national the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network’s confidential hotline to speak with a trained member of local RAINN affiliate organization.

By calling 800-656-4673 or using the live chat online, you can discuss your experiences, obtain medical and legal information, and receive additional resources and support. As the largest anti-sexual violence organization in the United States, RAINN also offers a comprehensive list of resources to help assault survivors and their loved ones.

Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line provides confidential support for veterans and service members, as well as their families and friends. Trained responders from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs are available through online chat, by texting 838255, or by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

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Find local mental health centers and professionals

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline provides insight on mental health and substance misuse issues, offers treatment referrals, and shares prevention and recovery methods

You can call at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or find local treatment centers on SAMHSA's website.

Mental Health America also provides information on local support groups as well as an interactive tool that will help determine where you should seek help.

Explore online resources

For more information, guidance, and support on which steps to take if you or someone you know is experiencing mental or emotional distress, here are some great references:

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

• Suicide Prevention Resource Center

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness

• Jed Foundation’s Mental Health Resource Center

• Take 5 to Save Lives

• BeThe1To

Be aware of suicide warning signs and how to respond to them

Not all people experiencing suicidal thoughts show obvious warning signs, but it's important to know what behavior to look for. Signs, according to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, include:

• Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself

• Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or obtaining a gun

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

• Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain

• Talking about being a burden to others

• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

• Acting anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly

• Sleeping too little or too much

• Withdrawing or feeling isolated

• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

• Displaying extreme mood swings

If you see a person showing any of those signs, or suspect he or she might be having suicidal thoughts, reach out to a hotline or other resource listed here, or seek assistance from a trusted friend, family member, or professional.

Make sure the person is in a safe environment free from alcohol, drugs, firearms, or other means that could be used for self-harm, and offer them your support.

Remember: Self-care isn't selfish

Though it's easy to forget, your mental health and emotional well-being should always be a priority in your life.

Whether you take a mental heath day from work every now and again or decide to avoid social media for awhile, it's crucial to set aside time to care for yourself. Here's a list of doable self-care suggestions to consider.