More than half (51%) of Rhode Island adults suffering from any form of mental illness do not receive any treatment for their condition(s). Furthermore, around 41.5% of Rhode Islander adults reported anxiety and/or depression in February of this year, according to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Of these people, around 3 out of 5 reported being unable to find the help they need.
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 Rhode Island 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.
Rhode Island OMHA
The state Office of the Mental Health Advocate offers a hotline that connects you to, according to their website, “an independent state agency staffed by attorneys who provide an array of free legal, investigative, and advocacy services.” Call 401-462-2003 for more information.
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 10 AM until 8 PM EST, there is a 24/7 text line available. Simply text ‘NAMI’ to 741-741 for assistance.