STRIVING & SURVIVING / AT YOUR OWN PACE

Find human support

HUMAN SUPPORT / UNITED STATES

Someone to talk to. A route to care.

For people in the United States, 988 offers support for emotional distress and crisis. You can reach out even if you’re unsure it is a crisis, or if suicidal thoughts happened earlier and you want support now.

A counselor will ask about your safety, listen, and help explore next steps. There may be a wait to connect; this site cannot guarantee a response time.

Call 988 Text 988 What to expect 988 web chat

Confidential does not mean anonymous. Services may record information and share it when there is imminent risk or when required by law. Ask about privacy before sharing identifying details. Read 988’s confidentiality policy.

If there is immediate physical danger or a medical emergency, call 911 in the U.S. Outside the U.S., use your local emergency number or crisis service.

Looking for ongoing support?

For ongoing care, search FindTreatment.gov and ask providers about sliding fees, payment assistance, age requirements, and confidentiality. Availability and eligibility vary. These links take you to external services; Striving & Surviving does not book appointments or monitor your situation.

Find treatment options Understand free and low-cost care

Who it helps: People seeking mental-health or substance-use treatment; age eligibility varies by provider.
Where: United States
When: Directory search; appointment hours and openings vary by provider.
Cost: Treatment may have a cost. Ask about insurance, sliding fees, or payment assistance.
Before you share: Ask the provider about records, billing, and confidentiality before sharing your story.

Before you reach out.

You can ask questions before sharing your story.

I’m worried about privacy.

Try asking: “What information do you keep? Who can see it? When would you have to contact someone else?” If you’re under 18, ask how your age affects privacy and parent or guardian involvement.

I’m worried about cost.

Try asking: “What would I pay? Do you offer sliding-scale fees or help if I don’t have insurance? Are there other costs I should know about?”

Find local services →

I don’t know how to start.

Try: “I’ve been having a hard time, and I’m not sure what kind of support I need. Can you help me understand my options?” You can start with one question.

Find support for your situation.

Teen and young-adult peer support →Find local services by ZIP code →Food, housing, and bills →Support after sexual assault →Depression and bipolar peer groups →Pregnancy and postpartum support →Relationship safety →

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