According to the CDC’s Household Pulse Survey, more than 30% of Tennesseans experience depression or anxiety, placing it among the top 15 states for mental illness. In 2021, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tennessee had the highest percentage of adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression in the United States.
Last year, according to the CDC, more Tennessee adults per capita than in any other state reported experiencing anxiety and/or depression. According to the study, called the Household Pulse Survey, the national average percentage of people who reported anxiety and/or depression is 24.5% and the TN percentage is 28.3%. This means more than one in four Tennessean adults suffer.
Fortunately, there’s help. No shortage of providers (or shortage of funds) should ever prevent you from getting the help you deserve. The following resources are free of charge, confidential, and available to all Tennessee residents. Help yourself or someone you love today.
The National Mental Health Hotline
If you need to connect with a mental health specialist, call 1-866-903-3787 right now. A trained professional will take your call and assist you however she or he can. A world of resources is waiting for you. The hotline is available to all US residents and operates on a 24/7 basis.
TN Statewide Crisis Line
This Tennessee hotline is also available 24/7 and staffed by compassionate professionals who can get you the help you need whether you or a loved one is experiencing depression, anxiety or a full-blown mental health crisis. You can reach the Tennessee helpline by calling 1-855-274-7471.
NAMI Helpline & More
The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides a wealth of resources, including the NAMI Helpline, which can be reached by calling 1-800-950-6264 or by emailing info@nami.org. Although the helpline is only available Monday through Friday from 10AM until 8PM EST, there is a 24/7 text-line available. Simply text ‘NAMI’ to 741-741 for assistance.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline
The NAMI helpline can connect you with a wealth of resources to help you confront any mental health challenge you might be facing. This live helpline is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. You can call 1-800-950-6264 or receive help via text around the clock by texting NAMI to 741-741.