The behavioral health resource lists offer information about no fee and/or low barrier to entry support programs and tools for navigating the Massachusetts behavioral health care system provided by non-profit organizations and Department of Mental Health partners. The lists were developed in cooperation with Emerson Hospital Behavioral Health Care staff and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Central Middlesex.
Help in a Crisis
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now available by simply dialing 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. For life threatening emergencies, please call 911. For local assistance with a mental health or substance use concern, you can find help by calling the Massachusetts Emergency Service Providers program at 877-382-1609 to connect with a clinician 24/7.
Resources
The below links open as PDFs.
Crisis Help and Information
Multiple options for connecting with behavioral health care specialists and/or trained peers during a mental health or substance use crisis are outlined. Information about planning for future crises is included.
Locating Mental Health Care Providers
Finding an available therapist can be challenging. This list outlines some free services that help make the search easier. The area’s Department of Mental Health partners that offer fee for service support, including MassHealth coverage, are noted.
Adult Peer Support Opportunities
This list includes options for adults living with mental health conditions to find support groups, peer-staffed warm lines, day programs, recovery courses, and a 24/7 peer-based crisis care alternative, all available at no charge to participants.
Family Support Opportunities
Support groups and courses for family members and supporters of people living with mental health conditions are offered free of charge by multiple organizations.
Child, Youth & Family Support Opportunities
Parents and caregivers of minors facing emotional and behavioral health challenges can find free support group options and an educational course designed for parents. The area’s Department of Mental Health partners that offer fee for service support to children, including MassHealth coverage, are noted.
Substance Use Support Opportunities
This list offers a link to the state database resource that helps locate substance use treatment and recovery services. It also outlines no-fee support group opportunities for those living with substance use challenges and their family members and supporters. Also included is contact information for Department of Mental Health sponsored jail diversion coordinators who offer Narcan training and distribution in some local communities.
Criminal Justice Involved
This list includes links to guides for people with mental health symptoms and their supporters dealing with the criminal justice system. The guides explain the essentials of the Massachusetts criminal justice system, information about finding treatment within, and a directory of reentry services available to those exiting the system. This list also includes contact information for Department of Mental Health sponsored jail diversion coordinators available in some local communities.
Veterans
There are multiple supports designed just for veterans. Options include a 24/7 crisis line, a walk in mental health clinic at the VA Hospital in Bedford, and the Home Base clinical program associated with Mass General Hospital. Clear Path for Veterans of New England is a wellness-based community center in Devens, Mass., that helps reconnect veterans to their communities.
New Parents
This list offers local and virtual support group options for perinatal and postpartum parents. Other supports are included to provide guidance during this unique time in life.
Additional Local Resources
Visit emersonhealth.findhelp.com or use the search box below to find local resources for a wide variety of needs — including food, housing, mental health, childcare, senior care, transportation, and more.
