Mental Health Crisis Resources Every Nurse Should Know About

Nurses have bad days, too. When we’re sad and need someone to talk to, sometimes friends and family aren’t available, and we end up feeling lonely, fearful, and anxious as thoughts bubble up from the surface. Existing stigma tells you that taking care of your mental health is unnecessary or not worth it. Still, stigma can increase social isolation and cause those to sink deeper into mental illness. Patients aren’t perfect, so nurses shouldn’t expect themselves to be okay all the time, either. Below are some resources to reach out to when you’re on the verge of a panic attack and need help immediately.

Mental Health Resources to Contact for Assistance

SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline

The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) offered by SAMHSA is a free, 24/7 hotline available to victims of any natural or human-caused disasters, such as tornadoes, severe storms, or infectious outbreaks like COVID-19.

Nurses are often on the frontlines of natural disasters, but carrying the emotional toll of caring for victims can be particularly challenging. SAMHSA encourages relief workers, first responders, and caregivers to call or text 1-800-985-5990 when experiencing emotional distress.

You’llbe connected with a trained counselor who can help you navigate through your emotions and find coping skills in case you find yourself distressed in the future. Referrals to local crisis call centers can also be provided for additional support.

Crisis Text Line

If you’re not a victim of a natural disaster and would rather text a counselor, then the Crisis Text Line can help you. This can be especially beneficial for anyone in public who cannot take a call.

988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline

Formerly called the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline offers support to anyone facing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress.

When you call or text 988, you’llbe directed to a caring counselor who will listen and offer support when needed. It can be daunting to call a crisis hotline, but conversations are confidential, so police and emergency services won’t be automatically dispatched to your home if you reach out.

988 centers have fast response times at an average of 40 seconds, so you won’t have to wait long for a call. When you do call, you’llbe directed to select options for the Veterans Crisis Line, a Spanish-speaking counselor, or LGBTQ+ support. If you don’t choose either option, you’llbe directed to a crisis center near you that is familiar with local resources.

Chats can last as long as needed for you to gain the clarity you deserve. Like other hotlines, support is available 24/7.

Other Resources

There may be other hotlines and support groups that are right for you or closer to your location. For example, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) maintains a list of peer-run warmlines for each state, which can provide emotional support.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help in unexpected placeseveryone goes through a crisis at some point in their life. Nurses deal with many challenges that can affect their mental health. Seeking connection from others is one way to take care of yourself and be reminded that you’re okay, no matter what you’re going through.

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Karie Pinnix

Karie Pinnix is a public relations strategist and freelance journalist with experience writing content for print and broadcast platforms and creating branding development with start-up companies. She’s written about topics like college nightlife, community organizations in Mississippi, and the nurse shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic. When she’s not working, you can find her exploring nature, catching up on reading, or traveling to the nearest beach.