Around 21% of New Yorkers suffer from some form of mental illness. Around 9% suffer from depression, which is much higher than the national average of around 6%. Furthermore, right around half of New York residents with a mental illness receive no treatment for it. The homelessness and poverty issues faced especially in NYC contribute to poor overall mental health.
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 New York 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.
HOPE NY
Sponsored by the state Office of Mental Health, HOPE NY offers a 24/7 hotline for a multitude of mental health resources. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text ‘GOT5’ to 741741. For help strictly with substance abuse, call 1-877-846-7369.
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.