Understanding Mental Health Helplines and How to Use Them

If you’re struggling, never underestimate the power of talking it out with another human being — even if it’s just over the phone or via text.

Many people dealing with mental health challenges don’t have a therapist, or they may not even know where to begin when it comes to finding professional care. Opening up to friends or family can feel too vulnerable, so instead, they keep it all inside, trying to push through these difficult moments on their own.

Sound familiar? Holding in your feelings isn’t going to help you feel better. Carrying the weight of your struggles alone will only make them feel heavier and heavier over time. 

This is where mental health helplines come in. These services provide you with support and guidance, especially when you're not sure where to turn or what next steps to take.

What are mental health helplines?

Mental health helplines are free hotlines you can call (or text) for emotional support and guidance. They are designed to provide confidential support for non-urgent mental health concerns. 

Helplines are typically staffed by trained volunteers, not mental health professionals. This means that although they can provide advice and emotional support, they cannot “treat” you. They can, however, give you referrals and point you in the right direction, whether you’re looking for local therapists, treatment centers, or support groups. Essentially, helplines serve as temporary emotional support and a bridge to professional care. 

Since helplines aren't designed for emergencies in the same way that crisis services are, they aren’t always available 24/7 (although some are). Check on the helpline’s website for their specific hours of operation. 

What type of helplines are there?

There are both general mental health helplines and specialized ones, based on what you’re struggling with. For example, there are helplines for people struggling with: 

• Eating disorders

• Substance use disorders

• Sexual assault

• LGBTQ+ issues

• Domestic violence

Helpline volunteers will specialize in these issues and provide related referrals. 

What mental health helplines aren’t

Helplines are an excellent resource for people looking for in-the-moment emotional support, advice, or referrals. However, it’s important to recognize what a helpline can’t do.

Helplines are:

• Not a replacement for therapy: Helplines are not meant to be a long-term treatment option. Chatting with a helpline volunteer is not a substitute for talk therapy or psychiatry. 

• Not official mental health advice: A volunteer for a helpline is not necessarily a mental health professional, and in their capacity as a helpline worker they can’t diagnose you or give you any official clinical advice about your mental health. They’re here to lend a listening ear, provide emotional support, and point you in the right direction for professional care.

• Not for use in emergencies: If you’re dealing with a mental health crisis or emergency, such as having thoughts about harming yourself, it’s best to call a service designed for emergencies, like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. These crisis counselors are specifically trained to handle mental health emergencies, whereas helpline volunteers may not be.

When should you call a helpline?

There are many cases where you can call a helpline, including:

• If you’re feeling overwhelmed

• If you feel like you don't have anyone you can confide in

• If you don’t feel comfortable sharing your concerns with your loved ones

• If you don’t have a therapist but need support

• If you don’t know where to start looking for professional help

• If you want recommendations for therapists, treatment centers, or support groups

• If you simply need someone to talk to in the moment

Ready to talk to someone? Reach out for help now.