Around 3.3 million people die in the United States each year. Bereavement is an unfortunate part of life and something we’re more likely to experience as those around us get older. Grief can present itself in many different ways, and there’s no right or wrong way to process it. If you’re struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one, calling a grief and loss hotline could help you process your emotions and get the bereavement support you need.
Grief counseling helplines support people of all ages and from all walks of life. Some helplines are dedicated to supporting young people who may be experiencing grief for the first time and are unsure how to respond to what they’re feeling. Other helplines specialize in providing support for veterans or those who have lived through a disaster and are now dealing with the complex emotions such an event can bring.
National Mental Health Resources for Bereavement Support
- National Mental Health Hotline
The National Mental Health Hotline is a 24-hour helpline you can call for advice about all kinds of issues. The hotline is confidential and staffed by trained individuals who can connect you to a local grief counseling helpline or other free services, depending on the support you need. We support people across the United States and can help you find free, confidential mental health resources in your area.
(866) 903-3787 - The Dinner Party
The Dinner Party is a nationwide organization aimed at young people who have experienced loss. The organization runs meetups called “Tables” that are organized by other young individuals and meet regularly to support each other. Meetings are held both in person and virtually and are free to attend. Hosts receive training and support from the organization to help them run safe, supportive meetings for the community.
Email: dinnerpartier@thedinnerparty.org - Crisis Text Line
If the thought of making a phone call is too intimidating, the Crisis Text Line is open 24 hours a day to provide free, confidential support. The volunteer team includes trained counselors who are ready to listen and provide empathetic, confidential support for all kinds of issues. The line is open to anyone, regardless of their age, ethnicity or religion.
WhatsApp link: Crisis Text Line
Text: Home to 741-741
Chat: https://connect.crisistextline.org/chat - Friends for Survival
This nonprofit bereavement outreach organization works with people who are struggling to cope after the suicide death of a loved one. It supports both the family members of the deceased and their friends. Friends for Survival is run by and for survivors, and all the staff and volunteers have been directly impacted by suicide themselves, giving them the insight to provide compassionate support to those they work with.
(800) 646-7322 - Disaster Distress Helpline
The Disaster Distress helpline supports U.S. residents who’ve been impacted by a natural or human-caused disaster. It’s staffed by trained counselors who can support people struggling with emotional distress, suicidal thoughts or survivor’s grief. If you have lost a loved one in a disaster or were impacted by a disaster and are struggling with flashbacks, anxiety or post-traumatic stress, the counselors and volunteers can listen and provide empathetic support.
(800) 985-5990 - Veterans Crisis Line
While not specifically a grief counseling helpline, the Veterans Crisis Line offers free, confidential counseling services for veterans and their family members. Veterans can text the service or visit the website to use the live chat. The helpline is staffed 24 hours a day to assist with all kinds of mental health crises, including grief, suicidal thoughts or depression.
Call: 988, then press 1
Text: 838-255
Chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/
Grief and Loss Hotlines and Mental Health Support
If you’re struggling with the loss of a loved one, calling a grief and loss hotline could be the first step toward processing your grief. Losing someone you care about is never easy, no matter the circumstances. Everyone grieves in their own way and at their own pace, and we understand talking about loss can be difficult. The National Mental Health Hotline can connect you with grief counselors in your area so you can take the first step toward healing and honoring those you care about.
