Knoxville

Do you feel lost and alone, like no one understands what you’re going through? Perhaps you’ve gone through a significant change in your life, and it’s affecting your mental health. If you’re on this page seeking helplines for mental health in Knoxville, you’ve come to the right place.

Mental Health Hotline partners with qualified mental health counselors and care providers in the greater Knoxville area. We have a wide array of resources to connect people in need with compassionate, confidential help.

Let’s get started finding the right help for you!

Knoxville Mental Health Facts

If you struggle with depression or anxiety, or have been diagnosed with a mental illness, you’re not alone. In fact, according to a recent Knox County mental health report, more than 50% of U.S. adults will be diagnosed with a mental illness in their life, and close to 15% of them will be diagnosed with a serious disorder, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression.

The report noted other facts about mental illness and treatment in East Tennessee:

  • The top three sources of mental illness or trauma in Knoxville adults are:
    • 54% Childhood Trauma
    • 43% Anxiety
    • 39% Homelessness
  • 78% of mental health providers in Knoxville ranked transportation as one of the top three barriers to accessing mental health services
  • 68% of Knoxville mental wellness providers reported that knowledge of available care services was a barrier for their clients who need access to mental health services
  • 11%-20% of U.S. veterans experience PTSD, as compared to 4% of the general population
  • In 2021, there were 452 fatalities related to drug overdose in Knox County, a 32% increase over the previous year

Tennessee ranks 46th (of 51) for Mental Health Workforce Availability, with a ratio of individuals to mental health providers at 590:1, nearly double the national average. Knox County is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area for Mental Health providers for low-income individuals, but there are several free or low-cost options for mental wellness in the city, and we can help you find emotional support helplines Knoxville, TN.

Local Mental Health Assistance in Knoxville

You’ve made the decision to seek help – and that’s a huge first step. About half of people who need mental health services or access to mental health crisis hotlines Knoxville, TN, don’t seek the support they need.

Even once you’ve admitted to yourself that you need help, it’s hard to know where to start, and the process can be overwhelming.

These Knoxville resources can help you get started on your journey to mental wellness:

Helen Ross McNabb Victim Services

The supportive staff at Helen Ross McNabb assists victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, protecting vulnerable people in danger. The center also works with runaway youths and provides emergency shelters for youths in crisis.

Some of the specific services include:

  • Identifying counseling services
  • Obtaining safe housing
  • Connecting victims with critical resources for adults and children

The focus of Helen Ross McNabb is compassionate and specific help for people in crisis or danger, addressing trauma and helping them change their lives.

The Mental Health Association of East Tennessee (MHAET)

This organization may be a big help for people who struggle with anxiety. Trained professionals offer free mental health screenings for:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • ADHD
  • Psychosis
  • PTSD
  • Alcohol and substance abuse

This agency may be able to help people obtain a diagnosis and then find a provider in their insurance network or one who provides free or low-cost services to people in need.

Cherokee Health Systems

This agency provides comprehensive health services to children, seniors, and adults with state-provided insurance, private insurance, or no insurance. Services include mental health evaluation and treatment for concerns specific to the elderly and children.

You Are Not Alone. Help is Available Around the Clock

When you call one of the support networks listed here, you’ll be connected with a trained professional to help you find support that meets your needs. Do you need therapy or a diagnosis for a specific condition? Or, perhaps you’re seeking group therapy to help build a support network and address mental health needs. Our Helpline counselors connect you with programs that are right for your needs.