(Useful) National Hotlines and Helplines
As the title suggests, this post is a list of national helplines that could be beneficial for people. This list is by no means exhaustive. However, I, as well as my coworkers, have found ourselves giving more and more of these resources everyday to people who need the extra support, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, here is a list of national hotlines that you guys can use if, or when, you need it.
Suicide Prevention for Adults
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and/or Mental Health Crisis Line
988 (for Ohio, it’s 9888)
For the crisis text line, it’s 741741
Grad Crisis Line
Specifically geared towards graduate students who may experience suicidal ideation. Call 1-877-472-3457
Domestic Violence, Sexual Trauma, and LGBTQIA+
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
RAINN Hotline (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network)
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
LGBTQ Hotline
1-888-843-4564
For young people who are LGBTQIA+ and who are in crisis, the Trevor Project can be of use. The number is: 1-866-488-7386. You can also text START to 678678
National Human Trafficking Hotline
1-888-373-7888
National Abortion Hotline
Provides funding for women who may need abortion. Keep in mind though 1-800-772-9100, open Monday through Friday
For individuals who are experiencing emotional pain after they’ve had their abortion (grief, depression, regret), there’s the h3helpline. Call or text this organization at 866-721-7881
Substance Misuse and Other Addictive Behaviors
National Substance Abuse and Mental Health Hotline
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Helpline
1-800-931-2237
Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA)
Follows the 12 step traditions to treating sex addiction. Call them at 1-800-477-8191
National Council on Problem Gambling
Help for those who are experiencing gambling addictions. Call them at 1-800-GAMBLER
CoDA
Get help for those experiencing codependency. They offer support groups, and approach codependency through a 12 steps program. Call them at 1-888-444-2359
Family and/or Youth
National Parent Helpline
1-855-427-2736
National Child Abuse Hotline
1-800-422-2253
National Runaway Safeline
The line gives safe, confidential support to young people who are homeless and runaways. The number is 1-800-786-2929
Caregiver Action Network
1-855-227-3640
Mothers Against Drunk Driving
1-877-623-3435
Your Life, Your Voice from Boys Town
Help for students who are dealing with the struggles of school and home life. Can also help students who are experiencing suicidal ideation, bullying, and mental illness: 1-800-448-3000 or text 20121
Veterans
Veterans Crisis Line
1-800-273-8255 or text 838255
Immigrants
The National Immigration Detention Hotline
Connects migrants with resources to help their families, documentation, and navigating the legal system. You can call 209-757-3733, or text 9233# if you’re inside detention
If you and/or your family are applying for citizenship, calling this number is a good way to track your case. Keep in mind when you contact them, you’ll receive a text message and/or email before they contact you, which may take 1-2 business days. Toll free number is 800-375-5238. If you’re outside the United States, it’s 212-620-3418.
