← Back to Explore 22 Ways

22 Ways to Heal / Practical Playbook

22 Resources for Mental Health Support

22 places and pathways to look for appropriate support; availability varies by location.

These are educational suggestions, not a diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. Try what fits your needs and circumstances.

WAY 01 / 22

Emergency services

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.

WAY 02 / 22

United States 988

In the US, call or text 988 for suicide and crisis support.

WAY 03 / 22

UK Samaritans

In the UK and Ireland, call 116 123 for emotional support.

WAY 04 / 22

UK Shout

In the UK, text SHOUT to 85258 for text-based crisis support.

WAY 05 / 22

NHS 111

In England, NHS 111 can direct you to urgent mental health help; other UK nations have different pathways.

WAY 06 / 22

Your GP or primary-care clinician

Ask for an assessment, referrals or information about local services.

WAY 07 / 22

University counseling

Check your university’s student wellbeing and counseling services.

WAY 08 / 22

Academic adviser

Ask about extensions, study support and accommodations when relevant.

WAY 09 / 22

Student disability services

Explore adjustments for eligible mental health or disability-related needs.

WAY 10 / 22

Athletic department wellbeing staff

Ask what confidential support your sports program offers.

WAY 11 / 22

Sports medicine team

Discuss injury-related emotional concerns alongside physical recovery.

WAY 12 / 22

Licensed therapist or counselor

Seek an appropriately credentialed professional for ongoing support.

WAY 13 / 22

Psychiatric assessment

Ask a qualified clinician whether specialist evaluation is appropriate.

WAY 14 / 22

Community mental health services

Check local publicly funded or nonprofit support programs.

WAY 15 / 22

Employee assistance program

If employed, ask whether confidential counseling benefits are offered.

WAY 16 / 22

Health insurer directory

Review covered mental health professionals and confirm details directly.

WAY 17 / 22

Local public health service

Look for regional referral information and community programs.

WAY 18 / 22

Trusted family member

Choose someone who listens and respects your privacy.

WAY 19 / 22

Supportive friend or teammate

Tell someone what kind of support would help today.

WAY 20 / 22

Peer support group

Find a moderated group with clear safeguarding and privacy practices.

WAY 21 / 22

Faith or cultural community

If meaningful to you, seek compassionate community support alongside clinical care when needed.

WAY 22 / 22

Personal support plan

Save crisis contacts, trusted people and practical steps in an easy-to-find place.

Take one step today

Choose just one idea to try. Write down what you tried, how it felt, and whether you want to repeat it. You do not need to complete all 22.