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If this is a medical emergency, please go to your nearest

emergency room or call 911.

Hotlines & Chatlines

  1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call 988
  2. Veterans Crisis Line – 1-800-273-8255
  3. The Crisis Textline – A free crisis service for people of all ages. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor. Also available on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.
  4. The Trevor Project – A national crisis line for LGBTQ+ Youth. To access their free services, Call 1-866-488-7386, Text ‘START’ to 678-678 or click here to chat via their website.
  5. CARES Hotline – A hotline for families without commercial health insurance in Illinois to receive crisis support for a child. To access, call 1-800-345-9049
  6. National Eating Disorder Association: Call 800-931-2237 or text NEDA to 741741
  7. Fireside Project for psychedelic support: Call or text 62-FIRESIDE. Open everyday 1:00 pm - 1am. 
  8. Thrive Lifeline – Trans-led and operated, focusing on people with intersecting marginalized identities. Does not "engage in non-consensual active rescue." To access, call 313-662-8209.
  9. Trans Lifeline – Trans peer support for Trans community that’s been "divested from police since day one. Run by and for Trans people." To access, call 877-565-8860.
  10. Wildflower Alliance Peer Support Line – Suicide warmline answered by peer supporters; doesn't call police. Available 7pm-9pm Monday through Thursday, and 7pm-10pm Friday through Sunday. Don't leave a voicemail; keep calling until you reach someone. To access, call 888-407-4515.
  11. Substance Abuse and Addiction Hotline – You can call this drug hotline at your convenience, at any time of the day or night, including holidays and weekends. All calls are completely confidential and private. You can call the drug hotline without fear of getting in trouble with the law. To access, call 844-289-0879.

Local Crisis Centers

The Living Room Program (LRP) is for Illinois adults in need of a crisis respite program with services and supports designed to proactively divert crises and break the cycle of psychiatric hospitalization. The LRP provides a safe, inviting, home-like atmosphere where individuals can calmly process the crisis event, as well as learn and apply wellness strategies which may prevent future crisis events. The LRP is staffed by Recovery Support Specialists. Individuals seeking services at LRP's are screened for safety by Qualified Mental Health Professionals upon entry and exit. Call ahead to verify hours and address. Some locations offer transportation assistance.

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What to do in a Crisis
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In the News: Therapist Comments on Grief and Cheating
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On Genocide and Caring for Mental Health

Recommended External Providers


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Tools for when times are rough

Everything is temporary: the good, the bad, and even the downright rotten. If you're physically safe but still struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings, here are some additional resources to help you get through this rough time.

Tell Someone

Secrets keep us sick. That's why every safety plan at Willow & Leaf includes a short list of people the person in crisis can call, text, or reach out to when in need. It's especially important to discuss with your loved ones if you're struggling with any urges so they can help you ride them out.

A click-thru guide for finding your way out of a dark spot. Simply click the link above and follow the script provided.

A workbook for navigating crisis, extreme states, or just foul moods. A great tool for communicating mental health needs to loved ones and care team.

At Your Fingertips

There are several apps out there that offer mindfulness and calming skills. Here are some of my favorites: Insight Timer (Free); Calm Harm (Free, Great for Navigating Urges); Open Path Wellness (passcode: VZGCuFEIbyqPvGhM)