📚 Appendix A: Crisis & Emergency Resources

Mental health crises can be disorienting, frightening, and overwhelming. Whether you’re experiencing acute psychosis, suicidal ideation, or just feel unsafe, immediate support is available. The resources below are free, confidential, and accessible 24/7 in the United States.

Emergency Support (U.S.)

📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

📱 Call or Text 988 | 🕐 24/7 | Chat Available
🔗 988lifeline.org
Free, confidential support for anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

Specialized Support:

  • Spanish-speaking counselors: Press 2 or text AYUDA to 988

  • Veterans Crisis Line: Press 1 after dialing

  • Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Use ASL Now via videophone access

  • LGBTQ+ Youth and Young Adults: Type PRIDE in chat or text field for specialized support

  • Online chat available via the 988 website

National Crisis Text Line
📱 Text HOME to 741741 | 🕐 24/7
🔗 crisistextline.org
Free support from trained crisis counselors via text.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline
📞 1-800-662-HELP (4357) | 🕐 24/7
🔗 samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
For substance use and mental health treatment referrals.

SCZ Resource Line (Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance)

📞 Call 1-800-493-2094 | 🕐 Mon–Fri, 10am–6pm ET
🔗 sczaction.org/resourceline
Trained volunteers provide guidance, resources, and support for people experiencing psychosis, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder—as well as for caregivers.

Trans Lifeline

📞 Call 877-565-8860 | 🕐 24/7 | Peer Support
🔗 translifeline.org/hotline
A trans-led peer support and crisis line offering emotional support and resources for trans and questioning people. No police involvement unless requested.

 

🏥 When to Go to the ER

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger, experiencing severe psychosis, or at high risk of self-harm and can't stay safe.

If possible, bring:

  • A list of current medications

  • Emergency contact information

  • Your ID and insurance card (if applicable)

🧠 Tip: If you're able to, ask someone you trust to go with you. You don’t have to go alone.

📁 Crisis Plan Tools

  • Crisis Plan Template (PDF)

  • Crisis Line Prep Sheet

  • Hospital Bag Checklist

These tools help you stay grounded and communicate clearly during a crisis. Consider filling them out in advance and keeping copies accessible.

🧍‍♀️ Support for Others

If you’re supporting a loved one in crisis:

  • Stay calm. Listen more than you speak.

  • Avoid arguments or intense emotion.

  • Encourage them to call a helpline or offer to call together.

  • If they're in danger, you may need to involve emergency services.

See Appendix C: Guide for Loved Ones for more support tips.

📞 Warm Lines (USA)

For when you’re not in crisis, but you need someone to talk to.
These are typically staffed by peer supporters who’ve been through similar experiences.

  • Visit: warmline.org for a full state-by-state directory

  • Most are open evenings/weekends and can be texted or called

  • Some also offer language-specific or LGBTQ+ friendly support

🏥 Emergency Room Alternatives

If you're afraid of going to the ER, these may be safer options:

  • Crisis stabilization units

  • Mobile crisis teams

  • Mental health urgent care centers

  • Peer-run crisis respite centers (if available in your state)

Ask your local mental health agency if any exist near you. These services are often underfunded, but growing.

🗣 What to Say in Crisis

If you’re calling a crisis line or talking to a provider, here are some things you can say:

  • “I’m scared of my thoughts and need someone to talk to.”

  • “I’m not safe but I don’t want to go to the hospital.”

  • “I need help grounding right now.”

  • “I’m not trying to hurt anyone—I just don’t feel okay.”

  • “Please don’t call the police unless I ask you to.”

You’re allowed to advocate for yourself. You’re allowed to be scared. You’re allowed to be honest.