10 Mental Health Resources

Mental illness does not discriminate. Anyone of any race, gender, identity or socioeconomic status can experience mental health issues, however, African Americans are especially prone to unique challenges. Because of racial and economic disparities, barriers to treatment and cultural stigma, we’re far less likely to seek help – or even recognize that there’s a problem. This is a particularly tough time, so we’ve compiled a list of mental health resources. We strongly encourage you to use them if you need help.  

Black Family Development

This comprehensive family counseling agency was created in 1978 by the Detroit Chapter of the National Association of Black Social Workers. BFDI offers specialized, family-focused counseling and advocacy services in the community.

313-758-0150

Crisis Text Line

Connect with a crisis counselor securely and for free.

24-hour text line: 

(U.S. and Canada) text HOME to 741741

(U.K.) text HOME to 85258

(Ireland) text HOME to 086 1800 280

Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network

The DWIHN provider network supports and serves individuals with serious mental illness, children with serious emotional disturbance, people with autism, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and those with substance use disorder. 

24-hour helpline: 800-241-4949

National Eating Disorders Association

NEDA is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders.

Helpline: 800-931-2237

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Those in distress get free and confidential support, prevention and crisis resources, and professionals learn best practices to prevent suicide.

24-hour helpline (veterans press 1): 800-273-8255

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network

RAINN is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization partnering with over 1,000 local sexual assault providers across the country. RAINN also hosts programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivor, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

24-hour lifeline: 800-656-HOPE (4673) or chat 

Reach Us Detroit

Coordinated by the DWIHN, this virtual platform provides access to a safe and private network of free behavioral health resources and therapy for children over age 14 and families, all delivered by trained counselors. Their Detroit COVID-19 Virtual Therapy Collaborative aims to remove stigma and barriers to treatment for African American males, single parents, transitional-age youth, the hopeless adolescent, the isolated member of the LGBTQAI+ community, and the otherwise overlooked. 

24-hour helpline (call or text): 313-488-HOPE

Toll-free: 855-966-3313

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association

Facilitated by the Department of Health and Human Services, SAMHSA provides leadership and resources – programs, policies, data, funding and personnel – to advance mental and substance use disorder prevention, treatment and recovery.

National helpline: 800-662-HELP (4357)

Team Wellness Center

With four locations in and around metro Detroit, TWC provides an array of comprehensive behavioral and physical health services, serving adults with severe and chronic mental illness in Southeast Michigan.

24-hour suicide hotline: 888-813-TEAM (8326)

The Trevor Project

This national organization connects trained counselors who provide crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth. 

24-hour lifeline: 866-488-7386, text START to 678678 or chat