September is World Suicide Prevention Month and is a good time to remind ourselves that our words, actions, and support can truly make a difference in the lives of those who are facing the darkness of mental health challenges. We must acknowledge the pain that some individuals are silently enduring and let them know they are not alone. It's also a good time to share national and local resources in place to help those in crisis.

Mental health resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately. Uncomfortable on the phone? You can chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org. Know you are not alone. There is help available, and there are people who care deeply about your well-being. 

Along with the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, there are also several options in {Town} for finding help for you or someone you know who is experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide. Some of those options include:

Statewide & Regional Crisis Resources

• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988
  A three-digit, nationwide emergency number available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. Calls and texts are confidential. Press 1 after dialing to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline
  Call or text 833‑773‑2445, or chat online at masshelpline.com, for 24/7 access to free, confidential behavioral health support and referrals—including in multiple languages. 
• 988 Crisis Lifeline via Family Services of the Merrimack Valley
  Reach trained local crisis specialists available around the clock. They also collaborate with the BHHL for treatment referrals. 
• Mobile Crisis Intervention (MCI)
  If someone needs help within the hour and can’t get to a clinic, trained professionals come to you—no insurance required. Dial 877‑382‑1609, listen for prompts, and enter your ZIP for local dispatch.
• Behavioral Health Urgent Care (e.g., Westford area)
  Outpatient clinics offering same/next-day appointments, medication consultations, and extended hours for non-emergency but urgent mental health or substance use needs. Call or text 833‑773‑2445 to access. 

Local Resources Across the Region

• 💙 Mental Health Resources – North Shore, MA

  
  Taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. Whether you or your child are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need extra support, there are many resources available across the North Shore to help.

  🌟 Crisis Support & Hotlines

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  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) – Free, confidential support 24/7.
  • Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (833-773-2445) – Connects callers to community-based treatment, available 24/7.
  • The Trevor Project (866-488-7386 or text START to 678678) – Crisis intervention and support for LGBTQ+ youth.

• 🏥 Hospitals & Emergency Support

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  • Salem Hospital / Mass General Brigham (Salem)
    Offers emergency psychiatric services, inpatient care, and outpatient mental health clinics.
    👉 salem.massgeneralbrigham.org
  • Lahey Hospital & Medical Center (Peabody & Burlington)
    Provides adult and pediatric behavioral health services, therapy, and psychiatric care.
    👉 lahey.org

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Community Mental Health Centers

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  • North Shore Community Health (Salem, Gloucester, Peabody)
    Integrated behavioral health with primary care, counseling, and therapy.
    👉 nschi.org
  • Beverly Hospital (Beverly & Gloucester)
    Outpatient psychiatric services, youth therapy, and support groups.
    👉 beverlyhospital.org
  • Children’s Friend & Family Services (Salem, Lynn, Gloucester, Lawrence)
    Youth-focused counseling, in-home therapy, and mentoring.
    👉 childrensfriend.net

• 🎓 School & Youth Resources

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  • North Shore YMCA & Boys & Girls Clubs
    Offer programs focused on social-emotional wellness, mentoring, and youth development.
  • School Adjustment Counselors & Psychologists
    Every public school district on the North Shore has mental health professionals available for students. Families are encouraged to reach out to their school’s counseling office.

• 🌱 Therapy & Counseling Options

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  • Private Practices – Many licensed therapists in Beverly, Danvers, Peabody, and surrounding towns specialize in CBT, family therapy, and child counseling.
  • Psychology Today Directory – An easy way to find local therapists who accept your insurance. 👉 psychologytoday.com

• 🧘 Wellness & Self-Care

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  • North Shore Mindfulness Center (Danvers) – Offers meditation and stress management programs.
  • Yoga & Wellness Studios – Many local studios (Ipswich, Beverly, Marblehead) offer classes focused on mental health, stress relief, and building resilience.
• Additional 24/7 Hotlines (National Support)

• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for real-time help via text. 
• SAMHSA National Helpline – 1‑800‑662‑HELP for substance abuse & mental health treatment options.
• Samaritans USA – Emotional support line: 1‑877‑870‑4673
• Domestic Violence – Call 1‑800‑799‑7233 or text “START” to 88788
• Youth LGBTQ Support (The Trevor Project) – Call 1‑866‑488‑7386 or text “START” to 678678

At-a-Glance Resource Summary

Infographic by NAMI

Find warning signs and risk factors of suicide, what you need to know about youth suicide, crisis resources, and more on NAMI.org.

Offer kindness, empathy, and support

During this World Suicide Prevention Month, let's be a beacon of hope for those in need. Our willingness to offer unwavering support, paired with our capacity to listen without judgment, can alter the trajectory of someone's life. Together, we can work towards creating a community where mental health is openly discussed, where struggles are met with compassion, and where every individual knows that they matter.

Let's unite in kindness, empathy, and solidarity. Let's light up the darkness with love and understanding. Remember, there's always hope – and there's always help.