Mental health support is crucial, and while some websites are being removed to keep some people from accessing the vital information and resources they need, SocialDad is a supportive place for everyone.
This guide provides current information about mental health support services across the United States and Canada, specifically focusing on youth, adults, and LGBTQ2S+ communities. If there are any other resources you’d like listed here, just get in touch in the comments below.
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. These resources are available 24/7, and many are free or low-cost. If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out to emergency services or crisis hotlines.
Crisis Resources
Immediate Crisis Support
Canada:
- 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 (24/7)
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868
United States:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (24/7)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Youth Mental Health Resources
Canada
- Kids Help Phone
- 24/7 support service
- Website: https://kidshelpphone.ca
- Text: 686868
- Call: 1-800-668-6868
- Youth Mental Health Canada (YMHC)
- Free educational resources and support
- Website: https://ymhc.ngo
- Focus on prevention and early intervention
- Youth Mental Health Fund 2024-2025
- Government-funded support programs
- Community-based mental health services
- Enhanced access to mental health navigation
United States
- Mental Health America – Youth Resources
- Website: https://mhanational.org
- Free mental health screenings
- Educational resources and support groups
Youth Mental Health Resources
Canada:
- Canada’s largest youth mental health network
- Peer-to-peer support programs
- Educational resources
- Specialized youth programs
- Family support services
- Educational materials
United States:
- Free mental health screenings
- Youth-focused resources
- Educational programs
LGBTQ2S+ Support Services
Canada:
- Healthcare provider directory
- Mental health resources
- Support groups
United States:
- The Trevor Project
- TrevorLifeline: 1-866-488-7386
- TrevorText: Text START to 678678
- Website
Adult Mental Health Support
Canada:
- 330 community locations
- Counseling services
- Support groups
- Crisis intervention
- Training resources
- Anti-stigma programs
- Research and policy development
United States:
- National nonprofit organization
- Local resources directory
- Support programs
- Educational materials
Additional Support Services
Online Resources & Communities
- Mood Disorders Society of Canada
- United for Global Mental Health
- Government of Canada Mental Health Resources
Community Programs
- School-based mental health services
- Community center programs
- Peer support networks
- Family support groups
Being a Supportive Ally: A Guide to Helping Others with Mental Health
Understanding Your Role as an Ally
The Basics of Being Supportive
- Listen Without Judgment
- Practice active listening
- Avoid interrupting or offering immediate solutions
- Create a safe space for open dialogue
- Use Supportive Language
- “I hear you”
- “Thank you for trusting me”
- “You’re not alone in this”
- “How can I best support you?”
- Avoid phrases like “just get over it” or “it could be worse”
Supportive Language Guidelines
When discussing mental health, use:
- Person-first language (e.g., “person with depression” rather than “depressed person”)
- Non-judgmental terms
- Recovery-oriented language
- Empowering and hopeful expressions
Practical Ways to Show Support
Immediate Actions
- Be Present
- Offer to accompany them to appointments
- Check in regularly through calls or texts
- Respect boundaries and privacy
- Learn and Educate Yourself
- Research their specific challenges
- Stay informed about current mental health practices
- Understand appropriate crisis responses
Supporting Different Groups
Youth
- Validate their feelings without minimizing
- Stay non-judgmental about social media and modern stressors
- Learn their communication style (text, call, in-person)
- Respect their privacy while ensuring safety
LGBTQ2S+ Community
- Use correct pronouns and chosen names
- Acknowledge intersectional challenges
- Create inclusive spaces
- Stand up against discrimination
- Recognize unique mental health challenges
Adults
- Respect professional boundaries
- Offer practical support (meals, childcare, errands)
- Understand work-life balance challenges
- Recognize stigma around seeking help
Taking Action
When Someone Needs Help
- Recognize Warning Signs
- Changes in behavior or routine
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Expressing hopelessness
- Know How to Respond
- Stay calm and non-judgmental
- Ask direct questions about safety
- Have crisis numbers readily available
- Know when to involve professionals
Supporting During Crisis
- Emergency Response
- Know local emergency numbers
- Understand when to call for help
- Stay with the person if safe to do so
- Contact their support system if appropriate
- Follow-Up Care
- Check in regularly after crisis
- Help create a safety plan
- Assist in connecting with professional help
- Support recovery journey
Self-Care for Allies
Managing Your Own Well-being
- Set Boundaries
- Know your limits
- Take breaks when needed
- Maintain your own support system
- Practice self-care regularly
- Avoid Burnout
- Share responsibility with others
- Connect with support groups for allies
- Maintain professional boundaries
- Seek your own counseling if needed
Creating Supportive Environments
At Work/School
- Advocate for mental health resources
- Support flexible schedules when possible
- Create safe spaces for discussion
- Challenge stigma and discrimination
In Social Settings
- Plan inclusive activities
- Respect dietary and substance choices
- Offer alternative social options
- Create low-pressure environments
Remember
- Supporting others is a journey, not a destination
- You can’t fix everything, and that’s okay
- Professional help is always an option
- Your presence and support matter
Note: This information is current as of February 2025. Please verify contact information and availability of services in your area as programs and resources may change.
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