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What to Do If You Are in an Emergency or Crisis


Your safety and wellbeing come first. If you are in crisis, thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or experiencing any situation that feels dangerous or overwhelming, it’s important to reach out for immediate help. ReachLink is not an emergency service, and our therapists cannot provide real-time crisis intervention. But you are not alone, and support is available 24/7.
Below are safe next steps depending on your situation.

If You Are in Immediate Danger

If you or someone else is in life-threatening danger, call 911 right away (or your local emergency number if outside the U.S.).

If You Are Having Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide

You deserve immediate support. You can contact any of the following at any time:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)

  • Call or text 988
  • Chat: 988lifeline.org
    • Available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or a mental health crisis.

If You Are in Emotional Crisis But Not in Immediate Danger

You can reach out to crisis services that offer real-time support:

Crisis Text Line

  • Text HOME to 741741
  • Available 24/7 for free, confidential crisis support via text.

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)

  • Call 1-866-488-7386
  • Text START to 678678
  • Chat: thetrevorproject.org
    • Support for LGBTQ+ young people in crisis or needing immediate help.

Trans Lifeline

  • Call 877-565-8860
    • Peer support hotline run by and for trans people.

Veterans Crisis Line

  • Call 988, then Press 1
  • Text 838255
    • Support for U.S. Military Veterans and Service Members.

If You Are Experiencing a Mental Health Emergency

Examples may include:
  • You feel unable to keep yourself safe
  • You are severely disoriented or unable to function
  • You’re experiencing extreme panic or dissociation
  • You are at risk of harming someone else
Go to your nearest emergency room or call your local emergency number.

If You Feel Unsafe Due to Abuse or Violence

National Domestic Violence Hotline

  • Call 1-800-799-7233
  • Text START to 88788
  • Chat: thehotline.org
    • Support for anyone experiencing abuse, threats, or unsafe relationships.

National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN)

  • Call 1-800-656-4673 (HOPE)
  • Chat: rainn.org
    • Confidential support for survivors of sexual violence.

If You Are Outside the United States

Use your local emergency number or find international crisis lines at:
iasp.info/resources/Crisis_Centres

When to Contact ReachLink

ReachLink is ideal for non-emergency support, including:
  • Ongoing therapy
  • Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life challenges
  • Guidance and coping skills
  • Relationship or work concerns
If you are ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s safest to call 988 or your local emergency number.

You Are Not Alone

Reaching out during a crisis is a sign of strength. Support is available, and people want to help keep you safe. If you need emergency care, please seek help immediately. When you’re safe, ReachLink can continue supporting your long-term mental health and healing.