If you are faced with a mental health or substance use emergency, please dial 9-1-1.

Read the Statewide Behavioral Health Strategic Plan Update and Foundation for the IDD Strategic Plan (PDF).

Urgent Services

For mental health or substance use emergencies where your safety or that of others is at immediate risk, dial 9-1-1.

If you feel you are experiencing a mental health or substance use emergency but your safety or that of others is not at immediate risk, please contact:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 800-273-8255 (800-273-TALK)
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 800-273-8255, option 1
• 24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text 741741
• Texas 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1, option 8
• 24/7 Local Mental Health Authority Crisis Hotline for substance use and other crisis services
• The Trevor Project (LGBTQ suicide help): 866-488-7386 (text 202-304-1200 or chat online)

Non-Urgent Services

The first step when seeking help for non-emergency mental health or substance use challenges is to find services in your area. You may call the referral line in your area for confidential help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Substance Use Definitions

Substance use means taking any substance, regardless of whether it is a legally prescribed medication or an illegal drug. Not all substance use may cause harm.

Using illegal drugs and misusing legal substances such as alcohol or prescription medications may cause harm. Examples of misuse are:

• Underage drinking or tobacco use
• Taking medication in a way that is not prescribed, such as taking too much medication
• Binge drinking

A substance use disorder is a diagnosis from a health professional when there is a pattern of using drugs or alcohol in a way that interferes with life activities.

Stigma and Mental Health

The stigma surrounding mental health is often a deterrent for people looking to get help. Christina, John, Zachary, and Shannon tell us why it's important to "shake the stigma" and talk to someone.