If you have any signs or symptoms of a mental illness, see your primary care provider, contact a current mental health professional, or schedule an assessment. Most mental illnesses don't improve on their own, and if untreated, may get worse over time and cause serious problems.

If you are having suicidal thoughts

Suicidal thoughts and behavior are common with some mental illnesses. If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, get help right away:

Call a suicide hotline number. In the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use its webchat on suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat.
Call 911 or your local emergency number.
Go to your local emergency room department for crisis assessment.
Call your mental health specialist.
Seek help from your primary care provider.
Reach out to a supportive friend or loved one.
Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone else in your faith community.

Suicidal thinking doesn't usually get better on its own — so get help.

Survivors of Sexual Assault

Helping Survivors' mission is to assist anyone who has been victimized by sexual assault or abuse. Their website is a compilation of information around different instances of sexual violence. They offer resources to assist survivors and their families, and continuously add more as they are discovered. More information and resources can be found on their website: www.helpingsurvivors.org/

Helping a loved one

If your loved one or family member shows signs of mental illness, have an open and honest discussion with him/her about your concerns. You may not be able to force someone to get professional care, but you can offer encouragement and support. You can also help your loved one find a qualified mental health professional and support them in making an initial. You may even be able to go along for emotional support. If your loved one has completed self-harm or is considering doing so, take the person to the hospital and follow the steps above for emergency support.