r e s o u r c e s
Taxes, traffic, and asking for help—these are my personal pet peeves. Among them, my reluctance to seek help often leaves me feeling stuck in otherwise manageable situations. This hesitation is not unique; many of us struggle with the concept of reaching out for support, especially when it comes to our mental vulnerabilities.
Deep-seated beliefs from childhood can make talking to "strangers" about our feelings seem daunting. While there's value in self-reliance, it's crucial to balance it with the understanding that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.
Below is a curated list of resources offering free therapy, hotlines, food pantries, and community support. I encourage you to make use of these resources to take a positive step toward a happier life.
to receive…
This resource is amazing if you are of African ancestry and are looking for 1-5 sessions of free therapy. The sessions are virtual and most of the clinicians are Afro-American. Sign up before a waitlist develops!
This is a safe, free and therapist led group made to ease the tensions of black femaleness through Afrocentric resources, therapeutic activities and pop culture references. They meet every Thursday @ 7PM.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
This organization has been around for decades and is a staple in the mental health community. They provide support groups, 24-7 hotlines and resources for those who are struggling to manage their mental illnesses and substance abuse.
The Latinx community is growing beautifully, yet the number of mental health clinicians who understand that reality are still tenuous. If you are looking for free sessions or just a Latinx therapist, this is the resource for you.
National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network
For those of color and queer, this resource is amazing for finding therapists who align with your reality and experiences. Free sessions are provided if you apply for the mental health grant fund before the end of April!
In such an individualistic society, to be codependent is seen as a flaw instead of a trauma response. If you find that you struggle with this (I know I do), then consider Codependents Anonymous for extra support.
Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families World Service Organization, Inc.
Dealing with the trauma and wounds of early childhood and adolescence can be overwhelming and lead to destructive behaviors later in life. This organization provides free webinars, support meetings, ACA readings and more!
Addiction can be intense on the family structure and lead to dysfunctions that take decades to mend. The help is out there nonetheless and Sober World provides droves of information on the best way to heal from the effects of addiction.
If talking on the phone and speaking deeply about your situation is difficult, consider using 7 Cups! They make therapy more available by allowing a participant to text their volunteer mental health professional for additional support instead of traditional therapy. Give them a try if you’re looking for a more off hands approach to your mental health care.
For any black woman or girl searching for emotional and mental support, this organization is the perfect place for you. Outside of having a successful podcast to boot, this web collective provides therapists, resources and material to help you live your healthiest life.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Emotions can be tough. Suicidal ideation is common but it should never be a battle that one faces alone. This organization has been around for decades and continues to provide to those in need of a positive, loving and affirming ear. Join their online chat room for extra support and guidance.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Intimate Partner Violence is a strange and obvious issue in American society, but continues to be ignored by those willing. If you are ready to heal from an abusive relationship with a former/current partner, consider contacting this hotline for free resources, therapy and support in your local area.
While America has enjoyed years of economic wealth and prosperity, that abundance hasn’t tricked down to the entire population. Basic necessities like food and shelter determine one’s behavior more than a therapist session can. If you are in need of food, whether as a broke college student or a struggling parent, use this resource. You won’t regret it.
