New Hampshire is the Live Free or Die state, attracting residents who want to live life on their own terms. But even with the freedom, open spaces and breathtaking scenery the state offers, its residents aren’t immune from the growing mental health crisis plaguing the country. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), more than one in five Americans are living with a mental illness as of 2021.
The numbers are even starker in New Hampshire. More than 221,000 state residents have a mental health condition. That’s more than five times the population of the state capital, Concord. More than a third of Granite Staters report symptoms of anxiety and depression, and about one in five New Hampshirites suffering from mental illness say they don’t have anywhere to turn for help.
If you or someone you love is dealing with a mental health challenge in New Hampshire, it’s important to understand that there are ways to get help no matter what your financial situation or support network looks like. The following national and state-level resources can help you face your challenge and start living again.
National Mental Health Hotline
The National Mental Health Hotline is available 24-7 and can be reached from anywhere in the country. A compassionate mental health professional will chat with you one on one and talk you through your issue. If you need further help, they can direct you to the best local resources. (888) 599-2408
National Alliance on Mental Illness
NAMI has its own mental health hotline available weekdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. If you’re experiencing a crisis outside of the hotline’s operating hours, use the text line for immediate assistance from a mental health professional.
Phone: (800) 242-6264
Text: NAMI to 741-741
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services can provide you with a list of community mental health centers and NH crisis centers. If you need immediate help, you can call the agency Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(800) 852-3345 ext. 5000
New Hampshire Crisis and Access Line (NH CAL)
The NH Crisis and Access Line (CAL) provides free and confidential rapid response in NH for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Depending on your needs, this access line offers crisis intervention or just someone to listen, and it can connect you to appropriate resources for ongoing assistance.
(800) 273-TALK (800-273-8255)
Mental Health Hotline for New Hampshire Residents
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or just need someone to talk to, call our Mental Health Hotline around the clock to speak with a trained and compassionate professional right away. Our crisis hotline in NH will help you face your challenge and direct you to the resources you need to get back to living your best life.