things outside this site that help.
hotlines, plain-language explainers, low-cost therapy directories, school-accommodation guides. these are not affiliates and we do not track which links you click.
if you need a person tonight
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988. Anywhere in the US, 24/7, free, confidential. Not just for suicide; for any crisis you are not sure how to hold.
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741. If you cannot do a phone call, this is the same kind of person on the other end. Free, 24/7, in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland.
The Trevor Project
For LGBTQ young people. Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or chat at thetrevorproject.org. Free, 24/7, confidential.
SAMHSA National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP. Free, confidential treatment referral and information for substance use, mental health, or both. 24/7, English and Spanish.
honest, free reading on conditions
NIMH: Mental Health Topics
The National Institute of Mental Health publishes plain-language explainers on every condition (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, more). Reads as 'someone explaining it without selling you anything.'
ADDitude Magazine
ADHD-specific, written largely by people with ADHD, much of it free. Wide range from clinical-but-accessible explainers to first-person essays.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Self-screening tools, peer support communities, condition pages, and a clinician finder. Skip the donation prompts; the content is solid.
The Mighty
First-person essays from people living with chronic illness, mental illness, and disability. Read it for the recognition more than the advice.
for school and accommodations
Understood.org
Plain-language guides to learning differences, IEPs, 504 plans, and how to ask for what you need at school. Built for parents and teens.
JAN: Job Accommodation Network
Free, confidential guidance on workplace and school accommodations under the ADA, including for invisible conditions. Use the A-to-Z by disability.
DREAM (College disability orgs)
Network of college students with disabilities. Useful if you are heading to college and trying to figure out what 'disability services' actually does.
finding someone professional
Inclusive Therapists
Therapist directory with filters for identity, modality, sliding-scale fees, and telehealth. Better signal than the big-name directories for finding someone who actually fits.
Open Path Collective
Therapy directory where every clinician offers sessions between $40-$80. Membership is one-time $65. Real option if insurance is not available.
Mental Health America: Find Help
By state, by need. Includes screening tools and lists of community mental-health centers (often sliding-scale).