Mental Health Services Helpline

Medical Reviewer

Libby Pellegrini

About the Reviewer

Mental Health Services Helpline Information

19% of U.S adults experience some form of mental illness.¹
1% have a serious mental illness.¹
5% have a diagnosable substance use disorder.¹

With nearly one in five Americans experiencing symptoms of mental health issues, it’s easy to see why help is in high demand. Fortunately, resources are available. Helplines make it easier than ever to get support and find suitable treatment, 24/7.

If you or someone you know requires assistance, a mental health helpline is a great resource. Answered by trained personnel, a call to a helpline can provide valuable support and information for anyone struggling with mental illness.

Trusted Mental Health Services Helplines

Rehab.com: 877-719-0390 Free and confidential, available 24/7. This helpline offers a private service that can help you find the right treatment center for your needs.

National Suicide Prevention Line: 988 Offered in English and Spanish and for those with impaired hearing. Available 24/7 for individuals who are thinking about suicide or are looking for emotional support for themselves or a loved one.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 800-662-HELP (4357) This confidential, free, 24/7 service is available in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental or substance use disorders. Offers referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and other organizations.

When Should You Call a Mental Health Helpline?

If you’re unsure about calling a helpline, look for the following signs that indicate you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues.

Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Severe mood swings
Feeling hopeless
Feeling emotionally numb
Lack of interest in people or activities
Struggling to deal with everyday life

If you notice anything that concerns you, or you have experienced problems before and recognize the signs, then you should seek help and advice as soon as possible. A good starting point is to call a mental health helpline.

The helpline advisors are non-judgmental and experienced at dealing with callers in a variety of emotional states, with varying issues. Whatever the reason, if it crosses your mind that you or a loved one requires help, it is always worth making a call.

What to Expect When You Call a Helpline

To assist you in the best way possible, an advisor will ask questions to try to understand your situation. It is important to be as honest as possible so they can provide you with support that meets your needs.

Their questions may cover:

Your thoughts and feelings
Why you called
The impact your thoughts and feelings are having on your life
Any ideas you may have about what kind of help would be best for you
Previous diagnoses
Treatment you’ve received

This information will help the advisor determine the next best steps to get you the appropriate support. They will also assess how urgent your need is and will address this immediately if they believe you need emergency assistance.

The helpline advisor may also ask practical questions so they can provide the most suitable treatment. These may cover:

Location
Access to transportation
Financial situation

During your conversation, you will also have the opportunity to share anything that is on your mind and ask any questions you have.

What Should You Ask a Mental Helpline Advisor?

Calling a helpline is an opportunity to have your mental health questions or concerns addressed. Your questions might cover:

General information about mental health
Types of mental health conditions
How certain mental health conditions make a person feel or behave
What treatment options are available
What is involved in various treatment options
How much time and commitment are required for treatment
Costs of treatment

Mental health is a broad subject, and no two cases are the same, but the advisor will be able to give you some ideas about treatment options and what you can expect from each.

After the Helpline Call and Next Steps

Your advisor will tell you where you can find more in-depth help and support. This may be in person, online, or by making a call to a targeted service that will be able to address your personal needs in more detail. They will also suggest what to do before starting any treatment. This might include discussing options with friends and family and looking into what is covered by your health insurance or state aid.

Making the call to the helpline is an important first step in looking after the mental wellbeing of yourself or a loved one. While an advisor cannot provide an immediate diagnosis, they can give you all the information that you need to find the most suitable support and treatment plan for you.

The main thing to remember: You don’t have to suffer in silence. Mental health concerns are common, and there are helpline advisors ready to assist you right now. If you need support, don’t hesitate to call.

com: 877-719-0390
National Suicide Prevention Line: 988
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 800-662-HELP (4357)