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Getting help when you need it

Sometimes we all need a little extra help. Explore a variety of mental health resources available in Massachusetts. Everyone’s journey is different, and what helps one person might not be the right fit for another. It’s important to keep trying to find the support that’s best for you.

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Getting Started

Finding the right support can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to figure it out alone. 

These three resources are great starting points. Each can connect you with a wide range of services and have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the best fit.  

Behavioral Health Help Line 

The free, 24/7 Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) connects individuals and families to the full range of treatment services for mental health and substance use offered in Massachusetts, including outpatient, urgent, and immediate crisis care.

Learn More  about Behavioral Health Help Line 

Urgent Care and Community Behavioral Health Centers 

Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUC) Centers and Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs) offer a wide range of specialized services for when it’s not an emergency, but you can’t wait for help. 

Learn More  about Urgent Care and Community Behavioral Health Centers 

Substance Use Help Line 

Whether you are ready for treatment, worried about a loved one, or simply want to know what your options are, the Massachusetts Substance Use Help Line can help you take that first step.

Learn More  about Substance Use Help Line 

Emergency and crisis support

988 Lifeline - If you or a loved one are having emotional distress or thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to get connected now, or chat online. When you need to talk, we're here. 

Veterans: press 1 | Spanish line: press 2 | ASL: call 988 videophone via ASL Now

Support for specific groups of people

Older Adults  

  • Mass Options - As we age, understanding and meeting our changing behavioral health needs is important to nurturing lifelong mental health. Behavioral Health services are free for older adults aged 60+ with mental health symptoms or challenges.  For more information or to connect with a program in your area, visit Mass Options or call (800) 243-4636  to find a program near you. 

Young Adults  

  • Speaking of Hope - Offers resources, peer connections, and a directory of free Young Adult Access Centers open to all young people. No diagnosis required. Access Centers are affirming and inclusive spaces that welcome Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) young people. Visit Speaking of Hope.   

Children and Families  

  • HandHold MA - A resource guide for parents and caregivers who want support for their child’s mental health. Curated by child psychiatrists, social workers, and psychologists to give families trusted guidance. Visit HandHold MA.  

Men 

  • MassMen - MassMen promotes wellness and empowers working-age men across MA to take action to feel better emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Learn more. 

People affected by problem gambling 

  • MA Gambling Helpline - Learn to recognize the signs of problem gambling and get help for yourself or a loved one today. Learn more. 

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