National and Local Mental Health Resources for Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency or is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Below are national and local resources for mental health education and support.

National Mental Health Resources

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI provides education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. Visit NAMI for resources, including support groups, educational programs, and helplines.

  • MentalHealth.gov: A government website offering information on mental health topics, treatment options, and guidance on finding mental health services. Visit MentalHealth.gov for more information.

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: This 24/7 helpline offers free and confidential support to individuals in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts. Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA offers resources like treatment locators, helplines, and educational materials. Visit SAMHSA for more details.

  • Crisis Text Line: Provides free, 24/7 support via text messaging. Text "HELLO" to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Visit Crisis Text Line for more.

  • The Trevor Project: Offers crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQIA+ youth. Visit The Trevor Project.

  • GLAAD: GLAAD promotes LGBTQIA+ acceptance and offers mental health resources. Visit GLAAD for more information.

  • National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center: Provides resources and training for healthcare professionals to improve LGBTQIA+ health outcomes. Visit National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center.

  • LGBT National Help Center: Offers confidential support through hotline and chat services for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Visit LGBT National Help Center.

  • National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (NQTTCN): Connects LGBTQIA+ individuals of color with culturally competent therapists. Visit NQTTCN.

Local Mental Health Resources

Maryland

  • Maryland Behavioral Health Administration: Provides a directory of mental health providers, crisis hotlines, and other resources across Maryland. Visit Maryland Behavioral Health Administration.

  • Maryland Coalition of Families: Offers support, education, and advocacy for families dealing with mental health challenges. Visit Maryland Coalition of Families.

Washington D.C.

  • DC Department of Behavioral Health: Offers a range of mental health services for D.C. residents, including crisis services and local treatment providers. Visit DC Department of Behavioral Health.

  • DC Access HelpLine: Provides information, referrals, and support for mental health and substance abuse services in Washington D.C. Call 1-888-793-4357.

Virginia

  • Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS): Offers mental health resources, crisis services, and access to local treatment providers throughout Virginia. Visit Virginia DBHDS.

  • NAMI Virginia: Provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness in Virginia. Visit NAMI Virginia for resources and support groups.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of resources. It is recommended to explore additional options based on your specific needs and location.